THE National Works Agency (NWA) says several proposals are being considered for the establishment of a structure to replace the Broadgate/Mahoe Hill swing bridge in St Mary, which collapsed last week.

The collapse of the bridge forced the relocation of the Mahoe Hill All-Age School, as the use of the structure was the only way to get to the institution.

Collin Morrison, senior communications officer for the National Works Agency (NWA), said among the proposals being considered were lifting the collapsed bridge to have it repaired and re-launched; constructing a new pedestrian bridge; and building a fort as a short-term measure to alleviate difficulties being faced by residents of the community.

Morrison said the NWA was in the process of making a detailed assessment of the damaged bridge, and that an official report would shortly be made to Housing, Transport, Water and Works Minister Robert Pickersgill, after which a decision would be taken regarding the structure to be erected.

Morrison said responsibility for the bridge resided with the St Mary Parish Council, but that the emergency arising from its collapse has made it necessary for the NWA to take the initiative to address the situation.