Work will begin soon on a new Orange Grove Bridge following the demolition of the damaged existing bridge in the next week.
In March 2021, Gunnedah Shire Council was allocated funding through the NSW Fixing Country Bridges Program funding and the Federal Bridge Renewal Program to replace the bridge at a cost of about $1.2 million. The remainder will be met by Gunnedah Shire Council.
Council was forced to close the bridge to traffic in January this year after vandals set fire to the timber foundations and caused significant structural damage.
Council Director Infrastructure Services Jeremy Bartlett said work had been scheduled as soon as possible taking into account the variable river flow for irrigation and other purposes from nearby Lake Keepit.
“I’m pleased to be able to announce that work is about to get underway on a new bridge,” Mr Bartlett said.
“We know the closure has been a major inconvenience for residents, but the damage to the bridge by vandals left us with no choice. We had been able to open the bridge for pedestrian access but that will no longer be possible once the bridge has been demolished.
“We have engaged with local bus companies to make alternate arrangements for their services.
“Council has awarded a tender in July 2021 for the design and construction of the replacement bridge, and work is expected to start following the demolition. The new bridge is expected to be open to traffic before the end of 2022.
“The old bridge has served us well since it was constructed in the 1920s. It is great to see work commencing to work towards a solution for residents and users of the Orange Grove road.”
Caption: Orange Grove Bridge is ready for demolition ahead of construction of the new bridge.
