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From: Rachel Graham, Communication Team, Christchurch City Council
Date: 24th September 2008

CHRISTCHURCH CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE

Old Waimakariri Bridge closed due to high river levels

The Christchurch City Council has closed the Old Waimakariri Bridge, on
Main North Road, due to concerns over the rising river level.

Heavy rain in the headwater catchment has lead to very high river flows
in the area. At around midday the Waimakariri River had reached the
three metre mark at the Old Waimakariri Bridge.

Peter McDonald, the Council's Pavement Maintenance Team Leader says the
bridge has been closed as a precautionary measure due to concern that
debris build ups against the bridge piers could cause damage to the
structure.

Mr McDonald says the bridge is likely to be closed for the rest of the
day, and motorists will need to use the alternative route via the
Waimakariri Bridge on the Christchurch Northern Motorway.

ends

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