Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Thursday, 20 August, 2020. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Watt Road Bridge re-opened to traffic

Stage one works included the removal of the asphalt surface on the bridge deck to enable a detailed inspection of the bridge, which was followed by the replacement of deteriorated timber decking and cross beams and reinforcement of the connection to the substructure.

Following the detailed inspection, Council decided to undertake additional works while the bridge was closed, allowing for more timber beams to be replaced and rubber kerbs and posts to be installed.

“Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions we have seen a reduction in traffic, so we extended the bridge closure for a week and a half and undertook further works to minimise the disruption to traffic and inconvenience to the community,” Council Director Infrastructure Phil Hoare said.

“These repair works are important to ensure that the existing bridge remains safe and trafficable until its replacement.

“Council’s 2020/21 Adopted Budget includes funding to commence the planning, engagement and design process for the ultimate replacement of the bridge. Further maintenance work has been identified to ensure the bridge remains safe and functional until its replacement, and those works will be similar to the recent successful works undertaken on the Toolamba Bridge,” Mr Hoare said.

“Council is hopeful that a recent application for funding for the further works will be successful, and will provide information on the scope and timing of those works when the outcome of the application is known. The process for planning, engagement, design and construction of a new bridge will be extensive and these current works are part of our asset management strategy for this critical piece of infrastructure.”