'Double-hump' bridge saved, so less mobile will have to find another way around

Plans to scrap a Western Springs landmark are now just water under the “double-hump” bridge after community activists won a last-minute change.

The popular bridge in the Auckland park was originally slated for replacement because its distinctive arches are too steep and narrow for some park visitors with mobility issues.

Richard Northey, chair of the Waitematā Local Board, says he voted to keep the bridge after hearing from community members.

“It was something that people have been fond of and wanted to keep part of the character of the Western Springs lakefront,” says Mr Northey.

Supporters of the bridge also say it was one of the best places for children to view and feed the eels and birdlife the park is known for.

Mr Northey says he was satisfied park staff found an alternative route around the bridge for those with mobility issues.

However, not all members of the board supported keeping the bridge indefinitely.

Graeme Gunthorpe was one of three local board members who voted to leave open the possibility of replacing the bridge with a more accessible design in the future.

However, Mr Gunthorpe’s motion was defeated four votes to three.

Mr Gunthorpe says he is concerned about the current bridge’s mobility access, and wanted the park’s plan to remain flexible if the bridge needed upgrading.

“Personally, I don’t have as much attachment to the double hump bridge, and I would rather people that have mobility issues are able to go through there,” Mr Gunthorpe says.

Vivian Naylor, advisor at mobility advocate group CCS Disability Action, says steep and narrow pathways like the existing bridge could be challenging for the elderly or those with prams.

Mrs Naylor says the surface, distance, and detour of the proposed alternative route need to be safe and usable for those with limited mobility.

She also says people with mobility issues often lack a voice in the planning of community spaces like Western Springs park.

Mr Northey says new signage will be installed to point out the alternative route.