Issue - meetings

The Committee gave consideration to a report regarding the refurbishment of the Saxilby footbridge. It was advised that the purpose of the report was to seek a supplementary budget to enable comprehensive off-site repair and paint works to the footbridge. The last works carried out were in 2009 when the decking boards were replaced and the bridge was repainted in situ without removal. The original budget allocated to the project was £100,000 for a full off- site renewal in 2021/22.

Members heard that the preferred option was to repair the bridge off site, the estimated costing of the work was in the region of £250k. The work was originally approved and carried forward from the 2021/22 budget when an estimated cost for the works was approved at £100k. The repairs to the bridge had a lifespan of approximately 20 years and as part of the budget approval process, a proposal would be brought forward to create a specific earmarked reserve to enable the Council to grow the budget for work required in 20 years. It was noted that it was requested to fund the supplementary budget from the Capital Receipts Reserve.

The Committee noted the report and the proposal. Councillors agreed that the preferred option was to refurbish the bridge off-site, with the preference being around Autumn 2023 if it was possible. It was highlighted that the Fossdyke was a particular area of interest attracting a significant number of visitors and the bridge was important as visitors mooring at Saxilby used it to come across and visit. The Council did own the bridge and it was suggested that it be renamed after the late Bob Ballerini who had originally sourced the bridge for the Community.

Officers confirmed that there would be regular health and safety inspections carried out for the maintenance and upkeep of the bridge. There were continual discussions with the Parish, the river trust and other stakeholders to ensure work was carried out promptly. The aim being Autumn 2023 depending on agreement.

With Members having moved and seconded the Officer recommendation within the report, the Chairman took the vote and it was unanimously

RESOLVED that a further allocation of £150,000 from the Capital Receipts Reserve be approved to enable the refurbishment of Saxilby Footbridge to take place subject to a further tender exercise.