The tranquil shores of Warner's Bay have been rocked by community outrage after Newcastle residents discovered their beloved Feighan Oval footbridge is slated for demolition.
Sudden Discovery Sparks Community Backlash
Locals were stunned to find fencing and demolition notices surrounding the iconic pedestrian bridge this week. The structure, which has served as a vital connection for families, joggers, and sports fans for generations, now faces removal by Lake Macquarie City Council.
"We're absolutely devastated," said longtime resident Sarah Thompson. "This bridge isn't just concrete and steel - it's part of our community's identity. Kids use it to get to school, families stroll across it on weekends, and sports fans rely on it to access the oval."
Council's Surprise Move Leaves Questions Unanswered
The council's sudden action has left many residents questioning the decision-making process. Unlike typical infrastructure changes that involve community consultation, the bridge's removal appears to have been decided without public input.
Local AFL clubs and sporting groups have expressed particular concern. The footbridge provides crucial access to Feighan Oval's sporting facilities, and its removal could create significant accessibility issues for players and spectators alike.
What the Future Holds for Warner's Bay
While council representatives cite structural concerns and maintenance costs as reasons for the demolition, residents are demanding alternatives be considered. The community is mobilizing through social media and local meetings to save their cherished landmark.
"This isn't just about convenience - it's about preserving the character of our neighbourhood," explained local businessman Michael Chen. "We understand infrastructure needs maintenance, but complete removal feels like losing part of our community's history."
As the controversy grows, all eyes are on Lake Macquarie City Council to see if they'll reconsider their plans or work with the community to find a solution that preserves this much-loved local asset.
