Geoff Helisma | Motorists who regularly cross the Romiaka Bridge at Palmers Island have been wondering why works on the new adjacent bridge had stalled. A Clarence Valley Council spokesperson said, in an emailed statement, that work on the new bridge has recommenced. The spokesperson said there were a “number of contributing factors” responsible for the slow progress. “[There were] some complications in obtaining required approvals [and] finalising the design,” the statement said. “The uncovering of a midden on the site and some difficulty in obtaining some major components (such as piles) to the required standard”, also contributed to the delay. “Works have recommenced on site with the driving of sheet piling. “Driving of the piles is programmed to commence [this] week. “Council is assured by the contractor that most of the issues have been resolved and construction should continue steadily from now. “Council, through public works, will continue to monitor progress to ensure quality of the work is of the required standard.” In December 2016, Clarence Valley’s councillors accepted a tender from Delaney Civil Pty Ltd to construct the bridge, at a cost of $3,232,285 (GST inclusive), and authorised the general manager to approve contract variations of up to 10 per cent. The total estimated cost of constructing the bridge is $3,901,736, including a 10 per cent contingency of $293,844. Grant funding of $1.731m was obtained from each of the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program and the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads. Clarence Valley Council is funding the $439,736 shortfall. NSW Public Work’s fee to manage the bridge’s construction is $229,451 (upper limit).