Planning approved for second Murray River crossing in Northern VIC

Victorian Minister for Planning Richard Wynne has approved the Echuca-Moama Bridge project under the Environment Effect Act.

The approval marks the next step in delivering the second Murray River crossing for the northern part of the state, which will connect the Murray Valley Highway at Echuca with the Cobb Highway in Moama.

This development in the project also allows VicRoads and Roads and Maritime Services to develop the preferred mid-west option for the new bridge route.

Mr. Wynne approved the EES after a thorough assessment, which examined any potential environmental effects and how to mitigate impacts on surrounding land throughout construction.

“This is a state-significant project which required an environmental effects statement to make sure all impacts were properly considered and the community was properly consulted with,” said Mr. Wynne in a statement.

“I have considered how this project will impact on the future bridge’s surrounds and am confident mid-west alignment is the best option for this long-awaited project.”

The preferred alignment requires minimal land acquisition because it is predominately on Crown land, and was determined not to have any significant impact on native species in the area, such as the squirrel glider.

Construction along the preferred alignment also reduces the amount of excavation needed compared to other options and will also include new off-road pathways, noise walls and lighting.

Conditions within the approval include the need for an independent bridge design review through both the Victorian and NSW government architects.

Environmental measures include reducing noise and visual impacts, any biodiversity and habitat losses, making landscaping improvements and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage.