Work starts on New Nambucca River Bridge

ACCIONA as part of the Pacifico Joint Venture has started on construction of a new bridge over the Nambucca River at Macksville, part of the $830 million Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade along the Pacific Highway.

ACCIONA as part of the Pacifico Joint Venture has started on construction of a new bridge over the Nambucca River at Macksville, part of the $830 million Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade along the Pacific Highway.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the new Nambucca River Bridge was an important part of the Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade.

“The Pacific Highway upgrade is a priority for the Australian Government, that is why we have committed $5.64 billion towards completing the Pacific Highway upgrade by the end of the decade,” Mr Truss said.

“This investment will significantly improve road safety and reduce travel times, as well as improving freight efficiency and providing a more reliable road network.”

Federal Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker said the new Nambucca River Bridge will be built approximately 1.2 kilometres east of the existing bridge.

“The Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade bypasses Macksville and will reduce the number of heavy vehicles passing through the town,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“At 850 metres long the bridge will also span the northern floodplain to minimise flood impacts on Macksville and nearby properties.”

New South Wales Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Duncan Gay said work is also progressing elsewhere along the Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade.

“Once completed this section of the Pacific Highway upgrade will reduce travel times for road users by about eight minutes and provide a safer journey,” Mr Gay said.

“The Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade is one of five major upgrades under construction between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.”

New South Wales Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey said navigation restrictions will be imposed on the Nambucca River during construction of the new bridge.

“A navigable channel will be maintained through the building site, although short closures will be necessary for the safety of boat users and workers,” Ms Pavey said.

“A reduced speed limit of four knots and ‘no towing' restrictions will be in place. Fishing can continue near the existing Macksville Bridge, but not near the new bridge work site for safety reasons.”

The Nambucca River Bridge will open to traffic in 2017, weather permitting.

The construction of the Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments, with each providing $415 million.