Council has made the decision to temporarily close a pedestrian bridge on the Domino Trail in Trentham, after independent advice confirmed the structure is unsafe for use.

The Domino Rail Trail is a beautiful trail to walk, run or cycle through picturesque bushland between the township of Trentham and the hamlet of Lyonville. The mostly flat trail runs along an old railway line, starting at the old Trentham Railway Station. If starting on the Lyonville end of the trail, the Radio Springs Hotel is where you can stop for a light refreshment before, during or after your jaunt. The trail is about 6 km one way and offers some seating along the way. Follow the trail markers to stay on track.

The bridge crosses over Stony Creek, just to the west of Station Street and is a short distance from the Historic Trentham Railway Station.

Users can detour via Victoria Street and signage is being put in place.

Mayor, Cr Tony Clark, said the bridge presents serious safety concerns and must be closed for the time being.

“The 20-metre timber bridge forms part of the old rail corridor, an active railway from 1880 to 1978, which was converted into a continuous trail for cyclists and hikers in 2013.” he said.

“The trail and associated assets, including this bridge, were handed over to Council for management in 2020. Since, Council has regularly monitored timber bridges along the Domino Trail, and unfortunately, must close the bridge to prevent harm to our community.”

“We recognise the significant impact this closure will have on residents and road users together with the challenges this has in relation to economic growth. Council has begun investigating options to re-open the impacted section of the trail and will keep the community updated along the way.”

“This represents another example of a state-owned asset where the Victorian Government does not provide funding for maintenance or support. Council will work closely with the government to assess and source funding to repair and maintain similar assets along the trail.”

It is expected that the bridge will need to remain closed for at least 12 to 24 months before a permanent solution is put in place.