Gilberton Swing Bridge
Severn Street, Gilberton
The character within Gilberton was provided by the backdrop of the River Torrens, along with its established dead-end streets and vistas of high-quality landscaped areas.
Of particular interest are two existing Local Heritage Places at the end of Severn Street – the suspension bridge (known as the Gilberton Swing Bridge) and the former swimming pool gate.
The Gilberton Swing Bridge is an attraction for locals and visitors alike, connecting the suburbs of St Peters and Gilberton. It is jointly owned by the Town of Walkerville and the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters.
The bridge holds great historical significance having been used by pedestrians for almost 100 years and is valued by the local community. It also served as a valuable asset for the Gilberton Amateur Swimming Club, which was established in 1915 on the River Torrens.
In 2012, both Councils identified that the structure was coming to the end of its useful life and as seen in 2013, a detailed assessment of the swing bridge was undertaken and identified the need for a major redevelopment.
As such, the work was budgeted for by both Councils in their 2015/16 budgets.
The bridge then sustained extensive damage during the storm events, which occurred in September 2016, and was deemed unsafe for public access.
As public safety is a priority for both Councils, a joint decision was made to temporarily close the swing bridge to undertake a total refurbishment of the structure. The redevelopment project was completed in January 2018.
