29 September 2020

Motorists will be enjoying trips across the new Gunnedah Bridge sooner than expected, with the project to improve road safety and freight connectivity expected to open to traffic before Christmas.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said work on the new 195-metre-long bridge was powering ahead, with work on the bridge deck nearing completion.

“We know Gunnedah has been a significant freight pinchpoint in the North West. The $61 million investment by the NSW Government in this bridge will fix that, allowing an uninterrupted flow of traffic for heavy vehicles through town in a big boost for productivity,” Mr Toole said.

“We’ve been pushing ahead with this project through these challenging times to ensure the community benefits from this investment faster – and we’re now on track to open the bridge to traffic months ahead of schedule.”

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the bridge has already been a big boost for the local economy, creating about 60 jobs.

“The next step will be for the community to decide on a name and submissions for this will be called shortly,” Mr Anderson said.

“The community and local stakeholders will be asked to suggest names, with Transport for NSW working with Gunnedah Shire Council to review submissions before selecting the preferred name.

“The community will be given directions in the coming weeks on how to provide suggested names for the new bridge.”

Final finishing works, including the closure of the rail level crossing, remain on track to be complete in early 2021, weather permitting.

For more information on the project’s progress visit: New Gunnedah bridge.