Nigel Chamier, the project manager who successfully led the massive three-year restoration of Brisbane City Hall, has been tapped to spearhead efforts to extend the life of the Story Bridge.
Read: Calls for the Restoration of Story Bridge Faces as Centenary Approaches
This appointment comes as the landmark structure nears the end of its design lifespan, prompting concerns about its future viability.
The Story Bridge, built from 1935 to 1940, was engineered to last a century – a standard approach for Australian bridges built during that period. With just 16 years left until it reaches its centennial, city leaders now face the complex task of prolonging its functionality beyond its initial design specifications.
Cr Adrian Schrinner announced Mr Chamier’s appointment last week, revealing that he had reached out to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to seek federal financial backing for the initiative. Cr Schrinner emphasised that the scope of the project necessitates cooperation from all levels of government, as it exceeds the city’s current resources.
Mr Chamier, a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2008 for his contributions to the property industry, brings extensive experience to the role.
His portfolio includes overseeing the $215 million restoration of Brisbane City Hall from 2010 to 2013 and managing the refurbishment of Anzac Square in the CBD in 2019. He has also held prominent positions such as Chair of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation and the Games Infrastructure Authority.
The Lord Mayor stressed the significance of the Story Bridge to the city’s infrastructure, noting that its restoration would not only preserve a nationally recognised landmark but also ensure continued smooth traffic flow. He expressed hope that the project would extend the bridge’s service life by another century.
Mr Chamier conveyed his enthusiasm for the project, indicating his intention to explore all possible avenues for preserving the longevity of this national icon.
Read: Kangaroo Point Bridge Reaches 90% Completion, Newest Landmark Takes Shape in Brisbane
The restoration is expected to be a substantial undertaking, comparable in scale to the City Hall project. As the Story Bridge has been a defining feature of the city’s skyline for over seven decades, this initiative aims to secure its place for future generations.
Published 19-August-2024
