A meeting last week indicated a bridge over the Lachlan River downstream of the dam wall could cost $9.5 million.

State Water announced earlier this year it intended to close the main access route into the village and state park next year, atop the dam wall, for security reasons and an upgrade of the dam.

The move was violently rejected by the community, with more than 300 people attending a public meeting to voice their opposition to the proposal.

The road closure will cut the main access route into the village and state park.

Opponents of the closure had hoped for a bridge alternative, still allowing access to the park and the village from the southern route, by crossing the Lachlan River immediately downstream of the wall.

However, the cost of the bridge – reported to council and community representatives attending a meeting with State Water late last week - is estimated to be $9.5 million.

This is almost three times the cost of the proposed $3.5 million upgrade to the secondary access route, Mt McDonald Road.

A State Water spokesperson stressed last Friday the decision was not final and that although the Mt McDonald Road routé was still their preferred option, they were mindful of opposition to the plan.

Wyangala and District Residents Association President Fred Bell said the news was disappointing for the village and park.

The issue of Reg Hailstone Way – the final stretch of road which will now take residents and visitors into the park - was also another sore point.

It will not be a part of the Mt McDonald Road upgrade and has been described by residents as just as dangerous.

Mr Bell said the Residents Association was planning another meeting, although the date was yet to be confirmed with State Water.

At this stage, the meeting was set for the Wyangala Country Club, on July 28, at 7pm.