A new shared-use pedestrian and cycling bridge has been constructed above the water pipes across the Merri Creek.

Council is now seeking community input for the naming of the bridge. This route provides an alternative to the busy St Georges Road and High Street bridges and the Rushall Station pedestrian bridge. The new bridge links to the Capital City Trail, Edinburgh Gardens, St Georges Road shared path and Westgarth cycle route. The shared cycle and pedestrian bridge and connecting paths are being facilitated and funded by the Victorian Government, Darebin City Council, the City of Yarra, and Melbourne Water.

A consultation process to choose the name for the bridge has begun. As the surrounding area is significant to the Wurundjeri community, it was decided that an Indigenous name was preferred as a sign of respect and acknowledgement to the traditional owners of the land. The community is invited to submit their preferences for a name, or they have the option to choose from three Indigenous names: Koonda Lat – which means Travel Over, Nallei Jerring – which means Adjoin and Gurrnoong – which means Creek.

The name should reflect the area, be easily recognised and remembered and promote a sense of community engagement.

Consultation will close on Friday 12 March 2010.

For further information visit the Darebin website , and to have your say contact Che Sutherland, by email che.sutherland@darebin.vic.gov.au or phone 8470 8665.

A name will be announced in mid-2010. The bridge and approach paths are largely complete and once a few final details are complete it is anticipated the bridge will be open for use by April at the latest.