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This article was published on Monday, 6 March, 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 The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate.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 temporary works started

In preparation for the arrival of the decking timber, Council staff have commenced stripping back the old timber decking to enable the replacement of the timber end beams and reinforcement of the bridge abutments.

These temporary works will also include the installation of bollards for the full length of the bridge to reduce the trafficable lane width. The bridge requires 390 linear metres of hardwood decking to replace the old decking.

Greater Shepparton City Council Director Infrastructure Steve Bowmaker said the heritage listed bridge needs to be repaired with specific timbers which have been difficult to source and they needed to meet VicRoads requirements.

“It is intended that more permanent bridge rehabilitation works will be undertaken in the 2017/18 financial year to replace the failed and deteriorated components of the bridge and bring the bridge to a more acceptable and safe standard,” said Mr Bowmaker. “The permanent repairs are likely to extend the life of the bridge by 10 - 15 years.”

“A longer term solution will also be considered by Council, which may require the construction of a new bridge by 2027,” he said. “A new Toolamba Bridge is listed in the Council 10 Year Capital Works Plan but we intend to complete design work for a new bridge over the next three to five years. The construction of a new bridge will be subject to receiving Government funding.”

Mr Bowmaker reminded residents who use the bridge that detours will remain in place until the works are completed. “We would like people to be aware that entering the bridge whether on foot or by vehicle is dangerous and puts themselves and others using the bridge in danger. It also creates an unsafe environment for the bridge workers. If you see anyone using the bridge without authority we ask that you report this to the Police.”

Mr Bowmaker also reminded people that once the bridge is reopened a two tonne limit applied until permanent works are done in the new financial year. “Once the more permanent repairs are completed it is expected the limit will rise again dependant on a VicRoads inspection.”