Shoalhaven Councillor Paul Ell’s plan to light up old Nowra Bridge

A historic, out of commission south coast bridge could soon light up for special events, if a councillor’s proposal is voted through.

The old Nowra Bridge will be repurposed for pedestrian and cyclist use, however it will take some time.

An idea to cover a historic, out of commission south coast bridge in lights to honour special events and days will be discussed at a regional council meeting, just days after the century old structure’s future was revealed.

The old Nowra Bridge was closed off to the public in 2023, after the new four lane bridge opened to ease Princes Hwy traffic congestion through the coastal town of 22,000.

South Coast MP Liza Butler recently revealed the NSW Government’s plan to repurpose the bridge initially opened 143-years-ago, as a public bike and scenic pathway over the Shoalhaven River, with the bridge set to be closed for 18 months to two years to complete needed works.

Now, just days after the announcement, Shoalhaven Councillor Paul Ell has pitched a proposal to have lights installed on the bridge to be used for special events and days.

Mr Ell told The South Coast News his idea was similar to the Morpeth Bridge in Phoenix Park NSW, which sees colourful lights activated 60 minutes prior to sunset until 10.30pm every night and is also themed around significant events.

Shoalhaven Councillor Paul Ell at the old Nowra Bridge.

“The old Nowra Bridge is such an iconic part of the Shoalhaven’s history,” he said.

“I have long thought that we should light up the bridge so that we can mark important, special occasions such as Anzac Day.

Shoalhaven Council chambers.

“This is what the Maitland City Council have managed to do with the Morpeth Bridge.”

Mr Ell has now put the idea forward as a notice of motion for Shoalhaven Council’s ordinary meeting on Monday evening, with council set to vote on whether the council CEO contact Transport for NSW to investigate the potential for a lighting display.

“I hope councillors will embrace the opportunity to use our iconic bridge to mark important milestones and occasions in this way,” Mr Ell said.

The young councillor took to social media to pitch his idea to the public and hear their thoughts, with some suggesting the money needed for the lights should be used in other ways around the region.

“I agree it’s a good idea, but with so many issues around the Shoalhaven regarding roads and services not being maintained due to budget constraints, it may be a waste of money in many ratepayers opinion,” Gareth Southam posted.

“That’s all well and good, but how is the housing crisis being addressed by councillors,” Carlo Di Giulio also posted.

“What’s more important – fairy lights, or housing for the community in the midst of a crisis?”

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