The Opposition People’s National Party is calling for urgent intervention from the Central Government to address the collapsed Woodsville Bridge in eastern Hanover.
Caretaker for the Constituency Andrea Purkiss says the bridge which had been compromised since 2022, completely collapsed on Good Friday in 2023.
According to Ms. Purkiss, the residents have been suffering, with no updates from the relevant authorities.
Despite resourceful community efforts to construct a temporary wooden crossing over the Cabarita River, Ms. Purkiss describes the situation as neither safe nor sustainable.
Ms. Purkiss says she has written to Works Minister, Robert Morgan highlighting the dire need for immediate reconstruction of the bridge.
She wants him to expedite the reconstruction process, noting that the National Works Agency has already completed preliminary assessments and included the project on a list for potential funding.
She emphasizes that the financial scope of the project is beyond the capacity of the Hanover Municipal Corporation and requires the Government’s direct involvement.
Ms. Purkiss adds that the Woodsville Bridge is a vital connection point for several farming communities and districts in Hanover and Westmoreland.
She says the collapsed bridge has disrupted lives, commerce and tourism.
