Work starts to build a side track for Spring Creek Bridge replacement

Early work starts this week on a $12.1 million project to replace a major crossing over Spring Creek in the North West of New South Wales.

The replacement of Spring Creek Bridge on the Kamilaroi Highway, 9.5 kilometres west of Narrabri, will improve safety for all road users including heavy vehicle operators who rely on the crossing to travel between Narrabri and Wee Waa.

Qualified contractors will be invited to tender to lead the bridge replacement project in late 2023, while Transport for NSW begins construction of a temporary side track around the project site as part of early works.

The temporary side track will take about 12 weeks to complete, weather permitting – and will provide safe, two-lane traffic flow on the Kamilaroi Highway while the bridge replacement is underway.

Traffic will be moved on to the side track just prior to the bridge replacement work starting, which is expected to take place in mid-2024.

Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain said Spring Creek Bridge is an important link for local communities, the heavy vehicle and the agricultural industries.

“This is a fast-growing community, which is why replacing the existing Spring Creek Bridge with a wider structure that meets modern design standards will ensure this road network is safe, and meets current and future demands,” Minister McBain said.

“It’s part of our commitment to upgrade or replace ageing bridge infrastructure across regional Australia, through our $85 million per year Bridges Renewal Program.”

NSW Minister for Roads, John Graham said with early works now underway, the Spring Creek Bridge replacement project was full steam ahead.

“Spring Creek Bridge has previously been subject to heavy vehicle restrictions and detours while essential safety work took place,” Minister Graham said.

“Its replacement will be a stronger, longer lasting structure which will improve access for wide loads and improve safety for all vehicles.

“We look forward to keeping the community up to date on this important project.”

The Australian Government is investing $5 million towards the replacement project, with the remaining funding delivered by the NSW Government.

For more information, including a Review of Environment Factors, visit: nswroads.work/spring-creek-bridge-replacement.