NSW contractor close to opening $61M Gunnedah Bridge to traffic

Motorists are expected to be driving across the new Gunnedah Bridge sooner than expected and possibly before Christmas.

Contractor Daracon Group have processed with works and are expected to be able to open the bridge sooner than expected.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said work on the new 195-metre-long bridge was powering ahead, with work on the bridge deck nearing completion.

“We know Gunnedah has been a significant freight pinch-point in the North West. The $61 million investment by the NSW Government in this bridge will fix that, allowing an uninterrupted flow of traffic for heavy vehicles through town in a big boost for productivity,” Toole said.

“We’ve been pushing ahead with this project through these challenging times to ensure the community benefits from this investment faster – and we’re now on track to open the bridge to traffic months ahead of schedule.”

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the bridge has already been a big boost for the local economy, creating about 60 jobs.

“The next step will be for the community to decide on a name and submissions for this will be called shortly,” Anderson said.

Overall works on the project include rebuilding sections of Warrabungle Street for the new bridge across the railway line, works began in January 2020.

Finishing works, including the closure of the rail level crossing remain on track to be completed in early 2021.