Fairfield Pipe Bridge safety reform calls ignored as no authority claims responsibility

CONFUSION still reigns over the Fairfield Pipe Bridge, despite public outcry over its poor safety.

Jim McDonald and his friend Dorothy Aboudara on the bridge where he was allegedly assaulted. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

CONFUSION still reigns over the Fairfield Pipe Bridge, despite public outcry over its poor safety.

A Leader report last week on an alleged assault by a cyclist on a pedestrian sparked calls for safety reforms of the bridge in Yarra Bend Park.

But no authority has claimed responsibility for the bridge, despite dozens of inquiries.

Water retailer Yarra Valley Water owns the pipe suspended alongside the bridge, but said it was not responsible for the footbridge itself.

Parks Victoria, which manages Yarra Bend Park, failed to respond to a number of requests for comment.

Alleged assault victim Jim McDonald, 72, said the lack of responses was “not good enough”.

“It makes you feel they’ve put it in the too-hard basket and they’re just hoping it will go away,” Mr McDonald said.

“We’re not asking them to rebuild a road – we’re asking them to put a few signs up and stencil the path. If I had the material I could do it myself.”

The faded "Cyclists Dismount" sign on the approach to the pedestrian-only Fairfield Boathouse bridge. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

The bridge spans the Yarra River and has long been a source of complaints by residents.

Cyclists are required to dismount and cross on foot, but few do.

Readers voiced support for safety upgrades and improved signage last week.

“It’s not appropriate for pedestrians and bike riders to share the same pathways,” Norm commented.

The Leader contacted Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria, Yarra Valley Water, Yarra City Council and City West Water in an attempt to find the bridge’s owner.

All except Parks Victoria responded to inquiries before the Leader’s deadline.