The first stage of the new Clarence Town Bridge has opened to traffic, delivering safer and more reliable journeys freight operators and road users in New South Wales.
The new bridge will be transformative for heavy vehicle access to Clarence Town, allowing the return of 42.5-tonne semi-trailers.
Simultaneously, the heritage listed timber truss Brig O’Johnston Bridge has closed to traffic – marking the start of a major rehabilitation which will preserve its legacy while strengthening it for the future.
Spanning 130 metres long and 14.4 metres wide, the new Clarence Town Bridge primarily features traffic dual lanes designed to accommodate heavy vehicles.
Single lane traffic will operate across the new bridge while construction work and upgrades continue.
Work on the project is expected to be complete early 2027.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the new bridge will significantly benefit transport operators.
“Heavy vehicles will no longer have commit to a 52-kilometre detour to bypass the existing bridge, saving valuable time for truck drivers in the area,” she said.
“By partnering across state and federal levels, we’ve been able to deliver a safer, more reliable crossing that will serve the Clarence Town area for decades to come.”
The Brig O’Johnston Bridge will now be temporarily closed to allow for major rehabilitation work.
This work will strengthen the structure to meet current vehicle loads requirements, reduce ongoing maintenance needs, and preserve its status as the oldest surviving timber truss bridge in NSW.
“It’s also fantastic to see work for major rehabilitation work on Brig O’Johnston Bridge which was built in the 1800s and our oldest surviving timber truss bridge,” said Labor Spokesperson for Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal.
“This major rehabilitation work will preserve the historic Brig O’Johnston Bridge and ensure future generations can experience and appreciate our timber bridge heritage.
“Projects like this bridge not only improve local infrastructure but also demonstrate our commitment to ensuring regional towns continue to receive the infrastructure they need and deserve.”
Rehabilitation of the Brig O’Johnston Bridge is expected to be completed by mid-2029.
In other news, Trailer will be launching its new Refrigeration Unit Spec Guide in its upcoming July print edition.
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