Victoria bridge improvements

The western side of Stratford’s Victoria Bridge has been repaved, and lighting will soon illuminate the trees adjacent to the bridge.

The lighting will be similar to that on Broadway south, and the paving is in keeping with the design along Broadway. The work is being completed as part of the Stratford Identity Project.

“We’re extremely grateful for the TET funding which allows us to complete these projects,” says John Jones, Operations Manager at the Stratford District Council. “The western side of the bridge has already been repaved, and the eastern side should be completed before 15 August.”

The work has been carried out by Rod Weeks, who reports positive comments from passers by.

“The colour and design of the pavers is attractive to the eye, and the new parapets and railings allow pedestrians much clearer views of the Patea River,” Mr Jones says. “Victoria Bridge was opened in 1924 and since then has functioned perfectly as a bridge but not so well as a scenic viewpoint. Hopefully that will change as the modifications to the bridge make it more open and attractive.”

A local contractor has also been used to install the lighting for trees on either side of Victoria Bridge. “The lights will illuminate trees with green light to form a gateway as traffic passes over the bridge,” Mr Jones says. The lighting should be completed by the end of July.