Batemans Bay bridge closed to boats in wake of fire threat
Two-day closure to boats passing through Batemans Bay to help residents, fire and rescue servicesTransport for NSW has announced a 48-hour ban on boats passing through the Batemans Bay Bridge as the state prepares for another period of high fire risk.
The bridge will remain open to road traffic throughout the ban period. Transport for NSW said this was to ensure residents were able to access the nearby Mackay Park evacuation centre, and ensure emergency services remained unobstructed.
The closure also means the ferry service will not be running.
NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings said motorists were advised to use caution through the area as conditions could change quickly.
“There is a lot of smoke in the area and visibility on the water is very poor,” Hutchings said. “We urge boaters to stay off the water unless absolutely necessary.”
Boaters should follow the directions of all signs and aids to navigation, Transport for NSW said.
Boat access through the bridge has already been restricted due to work on a replacement 12-metre-tall, four-lane bridge due to open in 2023.
The existing steel structure, built in 1956, uses a lifting counterweighted span to allow tall marine traffic to pass through twice a day.
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