Cotter Avenue Recreation Area Upgrade

Cotter Avenue is a popular recreation area located in the Cotter Precinct, 30 minutes drive from the Canberra CBD. ACTEW has plans underway to rehabilitate the Avenue, which has been closed since January 2010 due to construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam, including improved facilities, landscaping and the installation of a pedestrian bridge. These upgrades are part of ACTEW’s commitments formed under the Environmental Impact Statement for the Enlarged Cotter Dam project.

As a result of community feedback and ongoing consultation with local management authorities, ACTEW will ensure the upgraded Cotter Avenue will provide for various recreational activities as well as providing modern, low maintenance facilities that ensure the Avenue’s ongoing enjoyment and use for future generations. An important aspect of the Cotter Avenue experience was the original swing bridge constructed in the early 1900’s to provide access across the Cotter River, which was sadly destroyed in the 2003 bushfires. The replacement of this historically significant bridge will form a key element in the reinstatement of Cotter Avenue, and will provide access across Cotter River to the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail.

The new bridge (above right) will replace the old suspension bridge (above left) which was destroyed in the 2003 bushfires

The bridge will be approximately 190m downstream of the Enlarged Cotter Dam and will link into and form a loop with the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail and viewing platform. It will not be a suspension bridge, like the original bridge was, but has been designed to look like a suspension bridge and will be approximately 2m wide and 30m long. Plans have now been approved for the Cotter Avenue upgrade and new pedestrian bridge, and it is anticipated that these works will start in early 2012, and will be undertaken to coincide with the completion of the Enlarged Cotter Dam project in mid 2012.

Overhead map showing link from Cotter Ave to Cotter Dam Discovery Trail

Previous upgrade and development works have been undertaken by ACTEW at both Casuarina Sands and the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail and the design principles established in these areas will both influence and inspire the Cotter Avenue upgrade. The upgrade will focus on enhanced public access, respect for the Cotter environment, and sustainability of design and construction. 

Artist's impressions of the upgraded Cotter Avenue (above)

Cotter Avenue has been closed to the public since January 2010. The upgrade works will be undertaken to coincide with the completion of the Enlarged Cotter Dam project and subsequent reopening of the Avenue.

For further information phone ACTEW's water security information line on (02) 6248 3563 or email watersecurity@actew.com.au