Michael Johnsen MP, Member for Upper Hunter announced that the NSW Government had allocated $10.5 million for restoration work on the bridge as part of the $145 million Bridges for the Bush program which aims to improve road freight productivity in regional NSW.

“Built in 1904, the bridge is the only example of a concrete Monier piers truss design in NSW,” Mr Johnsen said.

“It will be restored and strengthened to ensure it continues to meet the required vehicle load standards.

“The bridge is one of 26 identified for conservation in the Roads and Maritime Timber Truss Bridge Conservation Strategy developed in consultation with the Heritage Council of NSW.”

The road links Stony Creek Road to Bridgman Road and on the western side joins Middle Falbrook Road through to the New England Highway just north of the Camberwell village.

The upgrade of the bridge will include the replacing and strengthening of the timber trusses, decking and road approaches at both ends of the bridge to meet vehicle load standards while ensuring its heritage features are preserved.

“Roads and Maritime thanks the community for feedback provided on the project and proposed bridge closures early next year,” Mr Johnsen concluded.

The bridge will remain open to traffic while this work is carried out but a month-long closure will be required during the upgrade.

The closure is being planned in consideration of community feedback received early last year.

The community will be kept informed of future work times, dates and the planned bridge closures.

For more information on the project please visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au or contact Project Manager Julie Morgan on (02) 4924 0201 or by email at Julie.Morgan@rms.nsw.gov.au