Ava Pedestrian Bridge Statement

Following detailed engineering assessments, KiwiRail has advised that attaching a new path to the existing rail bridge, as originally proposed, is not feasible without significant additional investment to meet the bridge's structural performance requirements.

As a result, the options being presented to Hutt City Council's Infrastructure and Regulatory Committee on 2 July focus on alternative stand-alone shared use path solutions, as well as the option of taking no further action.

Hutt City Council Director of Economy and Development Jon Kingsbury said the updated technical advice had changed the scope of the project significantly.

"The original proposal was based on a shared funding arrangement for a shared use path attached to the existing rail bridge. With that option no longer available, councillors are now being asked to consider a different set of options with substantially different costs.

"We know the loss of the walkway has had a real impact on many people in the community, and we appreciate there will be disappointment that the original proposal cannot proceed.

“Councillors will consider the technical advice, costs, and community benefits before making a decision on the way forward."

KiwiRail General Manager Wellington Metro Andy Lyon says safety has to be the number one consideration.

“Ava bridge is safe for trains. However, at almost 100 years old its seismic performance is in line with bridges of that age and adding a walkway to its piers increases its risk profile.

“It is kept safe and up to standard through regular maintenance and upgrade work. KiwiRail is also bringing in an enhanced inspection regime to ensure ongoing oversight.

“To support a passenger walkway though, its piers would need to be strengthened at a cost of around $20m. Building a walkway would be in addition to this. Given the bridge will be up for full replacement within the next 15 to 20 years, we have to consider the value in making this level of investment at this stage of its life.

“It’s a hard, but necessary call to make.  We can’t compromise safety but appreciate how much the community misses their walkway.”

Options for an Ava shared use path will be presented to the Infrastructure and Regulatory Committee on 2 July. Councillors will then determine the next steps for the project.