Construction has begun on a new suspension bridge in Casino over the Richmond River in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

The bridge will improve pedestrian and cyclist connectivity between Casino's central business district (CBD) and Queen Elizabeth Park.

The Australian and NSW governments are jointly funding the initiative through a A$3.51m ($2.28m) grant from the Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package under the 2022 Community Assets Program.

Funds are provided as part of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Richmond Valley Council has awarded the bridge's construction contract to Forge Outdoors, previously known as Fleetwood Urban.

The bridge is part of the wider Casino CBD Activation Project, which includes the development of a riverside precinct intended to link retail, residential, and community spaces with local sporting facilities and river walks.

Australia's Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government  Kristy McBain said: “The new suspension bridge in Casino will provide a safe, accessible connection between key recreational spaces and the town centre, helping locals stay connected and active.”

The plan to build a new structure follows as the existing Casino Footbridge experienced repeated damage due to recent flooding.

Richmond Valley Council mayor Robert Mustow said: “The new bridge was identified in the Casino Place Plan as an important way of connecting the community to the CBD, sports fields and the river.

“We would like to thank the Australian and NSW governments for this vital piece of work that allows this connection to remain following flooding and weather events.”

Authorities selected a new location and design for the bridge to improve resilience, setting the structure above flood levels and incorporating features to withstand strong river flows.

The intention is to ensure consistent access and safety even during significant weather events.

NSW legislative council member Emily Suvaal said: “The suspension bridge will connect local communities and visitors across the Richmond River. It will also provide a great boost to local jobs during construction and ongoing through the tourism opportunities it will present.”

The bridge construction is expected to complete by the end of June 2026, depending on weather conditions.