Pedestrians vent over ‘noisy, wobbly’ Southbank footbridge

A RICKETY river crossing has proven a bridge too far for Melburnians, with many lodging complaints about the rebuilt Southbank pedestrian bridge.

The newly refurished Southbank Footbridge. Picture: Jay Town

A RICKETY river crossing has proven a bridge too far for Melburnians.

The City of Melbourne has come under fire after reopening Southbank pedestrian bridge on Monday to a wave of criticism.

Pedestrians complained about loud banging as planks moved underfoot after the council spent $150,000 on maintenance and resurfacing works.

Tourist Bruce Rutherford said it felt faulty.

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“I got the shock of my life when I walked across it. It’s really, really loud,” Mr Rutherford, 49, said.

“I knew it was new, but it wobbles.”

Bar Ponyfish Island, located under the bridge, also raised concerns.

Manager Callan Taylor said the renovations made the public sound like “possums running along a corrugated roof”.

“Instantly I thought it could affect our business trade, because when a bike or a trolley goes over the bridge it’s ridiculous how loud it is,” Mr Taylor said.

Another local, who asked not to be named, said the sound resembled a herd of elephants.

City of Melbourne spokeswoman Kate Millar said: “We are aware the new decking is louder than previously, and as with any major installation of infrastructure we will monitor and make adjustments as required.”

The bridge was closed for two weeks for re-decking works soon after the council removed 20,000 love locks due to safety concerns.