Early work starts on New Dubbo Bridge project

The first phase of the New Dubbo Bridge project will kick off this month on a critical new intersection starting this week.

This work is a crucial initial part of the $220.2 million Newell Highway Upgrade – Dubbo Bridge project that is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments on an 80:20 basis. 

Abergeldie will deliver the new Brisbane Street and Darling Street intersection while Caporn Piling NSW Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to deliver test piling in the floodplain.

Test piling work in the floodplain is expected to commence by October once Caporn Piling has finalised planning and mobilised to the site. The test piling will form part of the final bridge structure and is key to the delivery of the project.

The work will take approximately five months to complete, weather permitting. Lane closures and reduced speed limits will be in place while work is underway between 7am-6pm Monday to Friday and 8am-1pm on Saturday.

Access to the northern end of Darling Street at the intersection with River Street will be closed with a detour in place.

Plans are being finalised for the upgrade of the Thompson Street and Mitchell Highway intersection, with work expected to start by the end of the year, weather permitting.

For the latest traffic updates, you can call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW app.

For more information on the New Dubbo Bridge project, go to https://roadswaterways.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/dubbo-bridge/index.html.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“This work now underway will make a major difference to the day-to-day lives of commuters, by easing congestion and ensuring reliable access through Dubbo at all times, including during flood events.

“This new Dubbo Bridge project is a good example of the Albanese Government investing in infrastructure which creates jobs, builds opportunity and unlocks economic growth to the benefit of the local community and as a valuable transport link to the wider region.

“Getting work underway on infrastructure projects like this is a visible indication of our Government improving access and road safety for commuters where it’s needed the most.”

Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway:

“The start of work on the new intersection of Brisbane and Darling streets is an exciting milestone for the New Dubbo Bridge project.

“The project represents a major investment in western NSW and will support around 290 direct and 1,200 indirect jobs during the construction phase.

“Once completed, the New Dubbo Bridge will be a key link in the western NSW road network, improving traffic efficiency along the Newell Highway, reducing traffic congestion for local and commuters, and improving access across the Macquarie River flood plain during flood events.

“This Government is delivering infrastructure that will reduce travel time, keep our motorists safer on the regional road network and provide a smoother journey home for years to come – it is how we are securing a brighter future for NSW.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders:

“Today marks the start of a significant phase for the New Dubbo Bridge project, ahead of the awarding of the main contract before the end of the year.

“There’s no doubt this project has garnered a lot of community interest, and it’s also been the subject of unprecedented consultation.

“This project will truly be a game-changer for Dubbo, easing congestion for locals and highway travellers alike, and bolstering the connection between east and west during a flood.”