Transport for NSW has dismissed calls to duplicate the Heathcote Road bridge over Woronora River, and is pushing ahead with plans to widen the existing lanes.
A report on community engagement, carried out in May and June, said feedback received from 235 respondents, who made a comment about a new bridge / more lanes / duplicate bridge, was "out of scope" [outside the scope of the consultation process].
"Bridge safety for all users is a priority and the bridge and approaches must be widened as soon as possible," the report said.
"The NSW Government has funded this project to $73 million, which covers widening the bridge and approaches.
"Other work to improve safety and network efficiency on the Heathcote Road corridor may be considered in future."
The report said most frequently asked questions included: "Why aren't you building a second bridge?"
Transport for NSW's response was: "This project is delivering on a promise to address community safety concerns by improving bridge safety, not building a new bridge. We will of course listen to what you have to say and the interest expressed for a new four lane bridge will be recorded for future network planning consideration."
The proposed widened bridge will be 9.4 metres wide, compared with 6.72 metres at present.
Each lane will be 3.5 metres wide, with a 1.2 metre shoulder, compared with the present lane widths of 3.06 metres and 0.3 metre wide shoulders.
A total of 1041 people completed an online questionnaire, and almost half (437 respondents) provided additional feedback.
Sutherland Shire Council and Heathcote MP Lee Evans are seeking a four-lane crossing.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the community engagement showed strong support for widening the existing lanes to improve traffic flow and safety for road users.
"The bridge dates back to 1943 and this work needs to be carried out to make it safer for motorists," the spokeswoman said.
"The improvements include widening the existing narrow lanes to 3.5 metres in each direction which will significantly improve safety for motorists, especially larger vehicles.
"As a major link between Sydney's south and south west, the improvements will also help improve travel times for motorists."
"To carry out the work, the bridge will be closed for at least six months to reduce the impact of bridge and road closures to motorists in the longer term. Transport for NSW will update the community with details and detours once plans are finalised.
"A Review of Environmental Factors will be on display later this year and early work on the bridge is due to start in late 2021."
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