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This article was published on Monday, 3 April, 2017. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Toolamba Bridge now open to traffic

Posted on Monday 3rd of April, 2017,

Council staff have completed temporary repairs to the bridge this week, enabling the bridge to be reopened with a two tonne load limit and 10km/hr speed limit until more permanent works can be undertaken.

Detours for vehicles heavier than two tonnes will be in place.

The temporary repairs included the replacement of the timber end beams, reinforcement of the bridge abutments and replacement of the most damaged areas of the timber decking. Bollards have also been installed for the full length of the bridge to reduce the trafficable lane width across the bridge.

Minor road maintenance works, including line marking and roadside drainage were also undertaken on the Toolamba side of the bridge.

More permanent repairs will be undertaken in the 2017/18 financial year subject to funding and the sourcing of a suitably qualified and experienced contractor to undertake the works.

Changes to the traffic conditions will be communicated through road signage. Local community members are encouraged to report anyone risking their safety and failing to adhere to the revised restrictions to the Police or Council.

Greater Shepparton City Council Director Infrastructure Steve Bowmaker said he would like to thank the Toolamba community for their patience whilst the bridge has been closed. “We know it has been a huge inconvenience for the community and they have been very understanding of the need to do the works.”

“Council intends to tender the more permanent repair works to replace the failed and deteriorated components and bring the bridge to a more acceptable standard. “It is intended that tenders will be released mid 2017 and it is planned for work to commence late 2017 or early 2018.”

The remaining repair works are estimated to cost approximately $500,000. “It is expected these more permanent repairs will extend the useful life of the bridge for a further 10 - 15 years - a longer term solution will be considered by Council which may require the construction of a new bridge,” said Mr Bowmaker.

“The Toolamba Bridge is listed in the Council 10 Year Capital Works Plan and Council officers will strengthen the case for receiving government funding by conducting traffic studies in the area,” he said.

Design work for a new bridge will take place over the next three to five years with a view to construct in 10 years’ time.

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