Plans to replace the Warroo Bridge in New South Wales have reached an important milestone, with the call going out for suitably qualified contractors to tender and lead construction on the project.
As part of the NSW Government’s $44.5 billion regional transport and roads budget, funding has been secured to replace the ageing Warroo Bridge with a new concrete bridge that will boost road safe transport efficiency and reliability for farmers, freight operators and all other road users.
The existing timber truss bridge was built in 1909 and, according to the NSW Government, is now in poor condition and is not suitable for use by modern agricultural equipment or heavy vehicles with Higher Mass Limit (HML) loads.
Construction of the new bridge is expected to start by mid-2025 after a successful tenderer is selected and the contract is awarded.
Tenders to build the new Warroo Bridge will close on Monday 26 August.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said projects such as the replacement of Warroo Bridge are progressing and will benefit the entire Central West region.
“The NSW Labor Government’s 2024-25 Budget delivers a record $44.5 investment in regional transport and roads, with Western NSW receiving significant investments to deliver infrastructure upgrades like the Warroo Bridge replacement project,” she said.
“Warroo Bridge is the only major crossing of the Lachlan River between Forbes and Condobolin that links Lachlan Valley Way and Henry Parkes Way, and is used by local traffic, tourists and vital regional freight operators.”
Later this year, Transport for NSW will carry out preliminary earthworks to build new embankments on the approaches to the river crossing that will support the future construction of the new bridge.
The existing Warroo Bridge will remain in service throughout construction and until the new bridge is opened to traffic.
“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,” said Member for Orange, Phil Donato.
In other news, nominations are now open for the 34th Australian Freight Industry Awards (AFIAs).
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