Demolition work is continuing on Narrabri’s Violet Street Bridge, with crews moving into the next stage of construction on the $7 million replacement project.
Narrabri Shire Council said the old bridge deck has now been removed, with work shifting to piling for the new bridge foundations.
This phase will involve installing temporary supports on the existing bridge piers before demolition of the remaining structure begins.
The replacement bridge is being built to improve safety, capacity and flood resilience, with the new structure designed to carry unrestricted loads and cater for all vehicles.
It will also include separate shared pathways for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides, improving access and safety for non-vehicle users.
The upgrade is expected to reduce disruption during flood events by decreasing the time required to remove barriers, a key issue for residents and road users during periods of high water.
A detour remains in place via Selina Street, the Newell Highway and Tibbereena Street, and will continue for the duration of the works.
Council said it is continuing to work closely with residents, schools, bus operators, businesses and emergency services to minimise disruption during construction.
The project is being delivered by Saunders Civilbuild Pty Ltd and is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, with $5 million provided through the Infrastructure Betterment Program under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and a further $2 million from the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery Program.
The Violet Street Bridge replacement is one of the region’s key infrastructure upgrades, aimed at improving connectivity and resilience for the Narrabri community.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au