As was done when the old Crescent Head footbridge was demolished, council is making some of the recovered wood from the old Back Creek footbridge, primarily the weathered decking boards, available to the public for keepsakes.

With the easing of coronavirus restrictions, the ReUse shop at the Waste Management Centre on Crescent Head Rd has been re-opened, allowing Kempsey Shire Council to make the timbers recovered from the demolition of the old footbridge available to the public for a nominal fee.

The ReUse shop will open specifically for the purpose of selling the timbers on Saturday, to accommodate the anticipated demand, and sales will be by appointment only to ensure social distancing and gathering requirements are met.

Those interested in purchasing timbers should call council's Customer Service team on 6566-3200 during business hours this week to register for an appointment on Saturday.

As initial queries have indicated that there is significant demand, stock is limited and the quality of the timbers is variable. Each customer will be able to purchase a maximum of five planks at a rate of $5-$10 per plank, depending upon quality.

Council's director Operations and Planning, Robert Fish, noted that the rate for the timber is well below market value, with a nominal fee being charged to ensure an equitable distribution of timber.

"These boards are being offered to those who want a keepsake from a much-loved local landmark. The decking boards won't be suitable for use in structures or other bridges, nor would it be suitable to burn, however residents could re-purpose it for garden use or similar," Mr Fish said.

Council is encouraging those who obtain a piece of the footbridge to share a photo of the timber in its new home on social media and tag council to celebrate this unique piece of South West Rocks history.

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