Applications open for next round of bridge upgrades in NSW

Applications open for next round of bridge build program — Image courtesy of New South Wales Government.

Hundreds of old timber bridges across regional New South Wales will be replaced, with applications now open for the next round of the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Bridges program.

The $500 million program aims to enable councils to replace timber bridges which are in poor condition. The program also aims to improve connections between regional and rural communities.

Round two of applications is now open, following the $282 million which was allocated to replace more than 400 timber bridges across 53 local government areas as part of the first round of funding.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the program has helped to deliver infrastructure upgrades to support regional routes.

“This program has been an absolute game changer for councils right across the State, allowing them to replace some of their oldest and mostly costly to maintain timber bridges with safer, stronger structures that are more resilient to natural disaster and better equipped to meet the needs of the community,” Minister Toole said.

“Replacing these bridges will help drive economic growth, create jobs and build stronger connections in our bush communities for generations to come.”

The program funding follows the $500 million invested by the NSW Government for the Fixing Local Roads program – an initiative which helps to repair and maintain regional roads.

Councils can apply for funding to replace ageing timber bridges in their local areas. Applications close at 5 pm on Wednesday 10 November 2021.

Councils are required to commence construction of their bridge projects within 12 months of funding being accepted and have two years to complete them from that time.

For councils who wish to apply, click here.