Built in 1881, the bridge is nearing its traffic expiry date as the new Nowra bridge project inches towards completion.

Yet it's not the end for the old bridge, with Transport for NSW officially opening up for feedback on how it should be repurposed.

In the past, South Coast Register reader's have suggested walkways, cycleways and even a space for markets to be held as new potential uses.

Read more: Nowra bridge has seen a lot of history in 140 years

New Nowra bridge project contract manager, Ryan Whiddon, announced the opening for consultation on Thursday, December 9.

Read more: $342 million Nowra bridge project launches past halfway mark

"We're seeking feedback on what people would like to happen as part of that whole bridge to include aspects such as pedestrian and cycle paths, as well as other elements we can incorporate into the repurposing of that bridge," he said.

Mr Whiddon added the old bridge will need to undergo substantial rehabilitation to maintain it as a "focal point" for the Shoalhaven.

"There is a substantial amount of work that is needed on that bridge....it does need a good amount of repainting, rehabilitation repairs and structural works," he said.

"But we do want to seek community feedback on what their expectations are on how we can continue to have the Nowra bridge as a focal point for the Shoalhaven area."

South Coast MP Shelley Hancock, who toured the new Nowra bridge when it reached past the halfway mark, encouraged the community to offer their ideas.

"The bridge is ancient history, but we've got to retain it," she said. "Now let's see what the community says about how they would like to say it's used."

Fill out the online survey by Friday, February 4 2022, to have your say.

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