Early works to replace a rural NSW bridge that was built in 1909 will begin in September, with the construction of a Warroo Bridge over the Lachlan River between Forbes and Condobolin.
The current timber truss bridge is in poor condition and cannot support use by modern agricultural equipment or heavy vehicles with HML loads.
The bridge will be totally replaced by a new concrete structure according to Transport for NSW Director West Alistair Lunn.
“Unfortunately, preserving the existing bridge is just not an option,” Lunn says. “The best outcome for all road users in the area, and particularly freight operators, is to build a new concrete bridge just a few metres upstream along with new approach roads on either side.
“Warroo Bridge is the only major crossing of the Lachlan River between Forbes and Condoblin that links Lachlan Valley Way and Henry Parkes Way, and is used by local traffic, tourists and vital regional freight operators.
“Once completed, the new Warroo Bridge will deliver a smoother ride for all road users, improved safety through wider lanes and better road approaches, increased load capacity for heavy vehicles, improved access for wide vehicles, and reduced ongoing maintenance costs and closures.”
“When the existing bridge is closed for maintenance, motorists are faced with a 93-kilometre detour to travel from one side of the river to the other. The new bridge will eliminate that frustrating inconvenience.”
Tenders for building the new bridge were called in June 24 and closed on Monday, August 26. Bridge construction is expected to start by mid-2025, with preliminary earthwork set to commence on Monday, September 9.
A reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place on Warroo Bridge Road during work hours of 7am-6pm Monday to Saturday.
More information on the project is available here.
Read more ATN:
NHVR condemns regional road death toll
C3 Limited to cease stevedoring service
Qantas Freight rebounds from “challenging” FY24 start