Safety improvements at two road-over-rail bridges in Blaxland and Wentworth Falls are a step closer, with a on-site meeting next week to discuss new traffic barriers.
In June 2016, a report commissioned by council found that there were a number of problems and dangers with four of the bridges in the Mountains (Blaxland, Wentworth Falls, Blackheath and Woodford).
Three problems were identified as “very high risk”, where mitigation action should be taken within six months.
These all involved inadequate guard rails at Wilson Way, Blaxland and at Wentworth Falls, which weren’t sufficient to prevent an out-of-control car crashing through on to the railway line.
Another 44 “high risk” problems were also identified, which the report recommended be addressed within 12 months.
A government official – the prinicipal manager of ministerial and government services - said that council was responsible for the three “very high risks” in the report.
The official, who was responding to a letter of concern from retired bridge engineer, Dr Eric Ancich of Blackheath, added that of the 44 “high risks” identified, 25 were council’s responsibilities, nine Sydney Trains' responsibilities and the remaining 10 shared between council and Sydney Trains
She wrote: “I am advised Sydney trains has asked Roads and Maritime Services to conduct load testing at Wilson Way, Blaxland and Station Street, Blackheath, which is scheduled for February to coincide with Sydney Trains' planned track access.”
A council spokeswoman said $100,000 had been allocated in the 2018-19 budget to address the “very high risk” areas.
“It should be noted that a key aspect of the installation and replacement of the traffic barriers is the connection to the physical bridge barriers, owned and managed by Sydney Trains.”
Because of this, council needed help and approval from Sydney Trains to connect the barriers to the bridges.
A Sydney Trains spokesman said a site visit will take place next week to discuss final plans to install the barriers.
“Discussions are continuing between Sydney Trains and council to ensure bridges in the region remain safe for both motorists and pedestrians,” the spokesman said.
