Debris, including large logs and other wood stuck against pylons on Tumut’s Pioneer Bridge has led one resident to voice concerns about the safety and stability of the riverside footpath.
Ron Pearce told the Times he believed the debris was funnelling water towards the bank and he feared it could erode under the footpath and walking track.
“It could impact the walking trail,” says Mr Pearce, who adds the debris has been piling up for some time and said one of the large logs had been stuck there “since the last flood”.
Snowy Valleys Council told us they had been in touch with WaterNSW to clear the debris.
WaterNSW themselves do not clear the debris, a spokesman from the government water organisation told us. They would need to engage contractors to clear the water of logs and accumulated wood.
The SVC spokesperson added, “we understand there is concern in the community about the potential damage river debris may cause to the bridge and pathways. Council is the responsible authority for removing debris, when it endangers council assets – like the bridge – however, this work requires specialist experts and equipment.
“Council staff are currently liaising with WaterNSW who have the expertise to do this removal work on Council’s behalf under contract.
“Council staff regularly check our infrastructure, including pathways alongside the Tumut River, for safety and stability, and we will continue to do so.”
