SECTION OF BOARDWALK TO CLOSE

The State Government has been advised by the Port of Brisbane Authority that a section of the City Reach boardwalk must be closed for this year’s Riverfire.

Transport Minister John Mickel said an investigation has discovered a 70-metre section of the boardwalk at Admiralty Quays does not meet safety standards for the event.

The Riverwalk from Boundary Street to Macrossan Street – between the Story Bridge and the Customs House – will be closed today for up to three months for essential maintenance work to be carried out.

“This decision follows the recommendations of a report commissioned by the Port of Brisbane Authority,” Minister Mickel said.

“We received advice last night that the section in question would represent an unacceptable risk during Riverfire.

“Meetings with key stakeholders were held this morning and the decision was made to close the section immediately.

“This has been a difficult decision but the safety of the public is paramount and that’s why we are closing the section of the walkway now.”

Engineers found that parts of the concrete surface of the walkway have split from the supporting planks underneath.

“My advice is that these cracks do not present a risk under normal use but that crowds during Riverfire on the walkway would pose problems,” the Minister said.

The investigation examined two sections of the Boardwalk at the Admiralty Quays and 145-175 Eagle Street sections – these two sections had been identified by the Port of Brisbane Authority as potential trouble spots.

“The Eagle Street section was found suitable to stay open under controlled conditions. We have no reason to believe that any other sections of the Boardwalk are at risk.”

The consultants did raise the need for works at the Eagle Street section but passed it as safe for Riverfire under controlled conditions.

Ownership and management of the walkway is currently shared between Brisbane City Council, State Government and private interests.

Last week the State Government made an in-principle arrangement for Brisbane City Council to take full control of planning, maintenance and management of the boardwalk.

This arrangement will not be affected by today’s announcement.

“This walkway has become an iconic feature of Brisbane and it is a much loved public facility,” said Minister Mickel.

“We will work with Brisbane City Council to ensure it is safely reopened for the public as soon as possible.”

Wednesday 27 August 2008

Media contact – John Smith 3237 1944