A controversial bridge to the Sydney Cricket Ground is being built with funds that had been ear-marked for roads in western Sydney and safety upgrades to the Pacific Highway.

In its rush to complete the bridge for next year's Cricket World Cup, the NSW government did not have time to tender for the $25 million project, and had to redirect money from other road programs.

Hostile reception: An artist’s sketch of the bridge over Anzac Parade.

Documents obtained using Freedom of Information laws show the government failed to include the bridge in its 2013-14 budget, despite wanting it to be completed for the World Cup, which starts in February, 2015.

This meant that when former premier Barry O'Farrell wanted to announce the bridge project in February, Roads Minister Duncan Gay and his department had to find the funds elsewhere.