Tamworth Regional Council has replaced 64 of the 67 ageing timber bridges it inherited more than two decades ago as part of a long-term push to improve safety and transport links across the region.
Council inherited 67 timber bridges when it was formed through amalgamation in 2004, with many already in decline.
Located across some of the most remote and rural parts of the local government area, the bridges presented varying safety risks for motorists and affected the ability of primary producers to efficiently move goods and equipment.
Since then, 64 bridges have been replaced with concrete bridges or culverts, with the recent completion of Mick Mahers Bridge at Moonbi and Walters Bridge at Duri marking the latest projects.
Almost $32 million has been invested in the timber bridge replacement program since 2004, including more than $15 million secured through external funding.
Tamworth Region Mayor Russell Webb said the program had strengthened connections across the region.
“Council has made a clear and consistent commitment to improving our transport network, ensuring our communities remain connected and our industries can move efficiently and safely across the region,” said Webb.
“The Timber Bridge Replacement program is an example of excellence in asset management, planning, collaboration across all levels of Government, and delivering safer outcomes for the community,”
With most of the original timber bridges now replaced, council is turning its attention to renewing older concrete bridges and major culverts across the region.
Tamworth Regional Council Operations and Construction Manager Murray Russell said inspections had identified several priority crossings.
“Council has a robust asset inspection process, and through that our staff have identified a number of crossings that are a high priority for us to renew before they cause an issue,” said Russell.
Priorities include Wiseman’s Culvert on Garthowen Road and infrastructure on Wallamore Road between Goddard and Bowlers Lane.
“Upgrading these crossings and being able to reduce the load limits of these roads will have real benefits to our primary producers and our regional economy,” said Russell.
“There are also bridges such as Somerton Bridge which have been badly damaged by flooding, and we are in the process of redesigning so we can apply for external funding.”
The projects form part of council’s broader investment in transport infrastructure aimed at supporting regional connectivity, economic development and community safety.
Other works across the network include major resealing and heavy patching, repairs to Carthage and Marius streets, natural disaster repairs on Barry Road and Port Stephens Cutting, pedestrian safety improvements and new shared paths.
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