Batemans Bay bridge closes again ahead of high fire risk
Another closure means taller boats won’t be able to pass through to the Clyde River regionThe Batemans Bay bridge has reclosed – this time indefinitely – as the bushfire risk in the southern coastal NSW region elevates again ahead of an expected run of high-risk weather conditions.
The closure will allow continuous access for fire and rescue services vehicles, and supplies coming in from the Princes Highway. The swing bridge normally opens twice a day to let taller vessels pass.
“The [Batemans Bay] bridge remains accessible for all road traffic during this period to ensure residents are able to access the Mackay Park evacuation centre in Batemans Bay and emergency services are able to access communities in an unobstructed manner,” NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings said.
“There is a lot of smoke in the area and visibility on the water is very poor. We urge boaters to stay off the water unless absolutely necessary.”
Road access to Batemans Bay via the Kings Highway remains closed and due to high temperatures and strong winds, as well as damage to the Kings Highway.
Motorists have been warned that they need to continue to exercise caution, and follow the directions of emergency services and traffic crews.
If conditions change, the status of the bridge will be updated on the Transport for NSW website.
NSW residents are being urged to avoid travelling to remote or heavily forested areas of the state while the fire risk remains high - a big blow during the traditionally busy Christmas and New Year holiday period.
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