Wellington Footbridge Closure Sparks Demolition Debate

Wellington’s Amora footbridge is slated for demolition this Saturday, marking a importent step in the ongoing revitalisation efforts around Civic Square.

The pedestrian bridge, which once linked the Amora Hotel to the former Michael Fowler Center carpark on Wakefield Street, has been made redundant by the hotel’s closure.

the Amora Hotel has been earthquake-prone and closed to the public since 2017. This inactivity led to the bridge becoming a magnet for anti-social behaviour, including squatting and vandalism.

While the Wellington City Council has confirmed the bridge remains secure, officials deemed its prompt removal as the most prudent course of action.

The demolition will necessitate a full closure of wakefield Street between the Taranaki Street and lower Cuba Street intersections. This closure will affect both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

The public is advised to adhere to the detour routes outlined in the traffic management plan during the closure period.

Further road closures are anticipated in the coming months as the council progresses with essential infrastructure upgrades. These works are in preparation for the planned reopening and enhancement of Civic Square next year.

Wellington Central Infrastructure Projects

The demolition of the Amora footbridge is part of a larger initiative by the Wellington City Council to upgrade and revitalise areas surrounding Civic Square. This includes essential infrastructure work and public space enhancements planned for completion in the upcoming year.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is the Amora footbridge being demolished?

  The bridge is being removed because it is no longer needed, as the Amora Hotel it connected to has been closed since 2017 due to being earthquake-prone. Its disuse also led to anti-social behaviour.

• When will the demolition take place?

  The demolition is scheduled for Saturday.

• Will there be road closures?

  Yes, a section of Wakefield Street will be fully closed to traffic and pedestrians on Saturday for the demolition.

• What should people do during the closure?

  The public should follow the detours provided by the traffic management plan during the closure period.

• Are there other upcoming road closures in the area?

  Yes, the Wellington City Council anticipates several road closures in the coming months as infrastructure work continues towards the civic Square upgrade.

What are your thoughts on the demolition and the upcoming civic Square upgrades? Share your comments below and let us know if you’ll be affected by the road closures!

What are the projected timelines for both the restoration and demolition/reconstruction options?

The History of the Wellington Footbridge

The Wellington Footbridge,a local landmark for over a century,has been unexpectedly closed to the public due to structural concerns. Built in 1923, the bridge connected the residential areas of Old Town Wellington with the burgeoning commercial district across the River Ash. Originally constructed with riveted steel and local sandstone, the footbridge quickly became a vital pedestrian artery, facilitating daily commutes and community access.Historical records show it was designed by renowned civil engineer, Alistair finch, known for his innovative bridge designs throughout the region. the bridge’s architectural style reflects the early 20th-century aesthetic, incorporating Art Deco influences in it’s detailing.

Current Structural Issues & safety Concerns

Recent inspections, conducted by the Wellington county Council’s engineering department, revealed notable corrosion and fatigue in key structural components. specifically:

Corrosion: Extensive rust was found on the steel supports, particularly near the riverbank abutments.This corrosion weakens the metal and compromises its load-bearing capacity.

Fatigue Cracking: Microscopic cracks were detected in several riveted joints, indicating metal fatigue from years of stress and vibration.

Sandstone Erosion: The sandstone piers supporting the bridge have experienced significant erosion due to weathering and river currents.

Weight Restrictions: Prior to closure, temporary weight restrictions were implemented, but these proved insufficient to address the escalating safety risks.

These findings prompted the immediate closure of the bridge on July 15th, 2025, to prevent potential accidents. The Council has deemed the bridge unsafe for public use until a comprehensive assessment is completed.

Demolition vs. Restoration: The Core of the Debate

The closure has ignited a fierce debate within the Wellington community regarding the future of the footbridge.Two primary options are being considered: complete demolition and reconstruction,or extensive restoration.

Arguments for Demolition:

Cost-Effectiveness: Demolition and a new, modern bridge structure are potentially cheaper than a full restoration, especially considering the extent of the damage. Estimates for a new bridge range from £800,000 to £1.2 million.

Modern Infrastructure: A new bridge could be designed to accommodate increased pedestrian and cyclist traffic, incorporating features like wider walkways and dedicated bike lanes.

reduced Disruption: While demolition would cause temporary disruption, the overall construction timeline might be shorter than a complex restoration project.

Arguments for Restoration:

Historical Significance: Preservationists argue that the Wellington Footbridge is a valuable piece of local history and should be preserved for future generations.

Architectural Value: The bridge’s unique Art Deco design is considered an vital architectural feature of the town.

Community sentiment: A significant portion of the community strongly opposes demolition, viewing the bridge as a beloved landmark.

Sustainable practices: Restoration aligns with sustainable building practices by reusing existing materials and minimizing waste.

The Role of Wellington of Bilmore & Local businesses

The closure is impacting local businesses, particularly those in Old Town Wellington. Foot traffic has noticeably decreased, affecting retail sales and restaurant patronage.Wellington of Bilmore, a long-standing retailer in the area, has expressed concerns about the long-term economic impact. They, along with other businesses, are advocating for a swift resolution, whether through restoration or a timely reconstruction. The wellington Business Association is actively lobbying the County Council to prioritize the bridge project and provide support to affected businesses.

Engineering Assessments & Cost analysis

The County Council has commissioned a detailed engineering assessment from two independent firms: bridgetech Solutions and Ashworth Engineering. Both firms are currently evaluating the structural integrity of the bridge and providing cost estimates for both demolition/reconstruction and restoration. Preliminary reports suggest:

Restoration Costs: Estimated between £1.5 million and £2.5 million, depending on the extent of repairs and material sourcing.

Demolition & Reconstruction Costs: estimated between £800,000 and £1.2 million,including site clearance,new bridge construction,and landscaping.

Timeline: Restoration is projected to take 18-24 months, while demolition and reconstruction could be completed in 12-18 months.

These figures are subject to change as the assessments are finalized. The Council plans to publish the full reports on their website by July 29th, 2025.

Public Consultation & Next Steps

The Wellington County Council is holding a public consultation meeting on July 22nd, 2025, at the Wellington Town Hall to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. The meeting will provide an opportunity to review the engineering assessments, discuss the proposed options, and voice opinions.

Following the public consultation, the Council will make a final decision regarding the future of the Wellington Footbridge. The decision is expected to be announced on August 5th, 2025. Residents can submit their feedback online through the Council’s website ([invalid URL removed – example only]) or by attending the public meeting.The outcome will significantly shape the future of Wellington’s infrastructure and its historical landscape.