A new 12 tonne load limit has been introduced on this busy Ipswich Street that would normally see up to 300 commercial vehicles each day – but not everyone is happy about it.
Brisbane Terrace in Goodna has a new 12 tonne gross load limit, officially introduced on September 21, 2023, due to structural concerns. This new limit will remain in place until the bridge is either upgraded or replaced.
With the new weight restrictions being enforced, new routes are now required for heavy vehicles.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding says Brisbane Terrace in Goodna is a busy street that’s used by about 3000 vehicles daily.
She explained that the City of Ipswich Council recently had an independent structural assessment of the culvert crossing Woogaroo Creek tributary on Brisbane Terrace – adjacent to Evan Marginson Park – between Layard Street and George Street, Goodna.
“The load limit will protect this culvert crossing until it is upgraded,” Harding said.
“As a result of the 2022 floods, council has been focused on continuing its efforts to rebuild flood-damaged assets across the city, redirecting budget funds to do so. All projects will be reviewed as part of council’s annual budget process, including funds to replace or restore this culvert.”
For many of the truck drivers who use this route however, the move hasn’t been a welcome one.
A truckie based in a nearby industrial estate contacted Big Rigs to voice his concerns. He says this culvert crossing is frequently used by heavy vehicles greater than 12 tonne.
“We have been instructed not to use the road and will face counselling if we are to use it. So now we just sit in traffic every day during peak times on the Ipswich Motorway as we are only to use the Mine Street exit,” he said.
An LED trailer sign has been placed on approach to the culvert, advising of the new weight restrictions.
Though heavy vehicles over 12 tonne are no longer able to access Brisbane Terrace in Goodna, Mayor Harding says buses can still use the normal route.
Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee deputy chairperson councillor Paul Tully added that the detour is necessary for the safety of road users and will remain in place until the culvert is upgraded or replaced.
“Council has installed heavy vehicle detour signage along Brisbane Terrace, Layard Street, Francis Streets and the Ipswich Motorway to guide heavy vehicle drivers,” Tully said.
“Council appreciates the frustrations such detours can have for commercial drivers and thanks them for their patience.”
This was echoed by Division 2 councillor Nicole Jonic. “Road safety is a priority for council, for all users. As one of Goodna’s key thoroughfares, it’s important we maintain and manage Brisbane Terrace effectively for all users,” she said.
“This diversion and introduced load limit will protect the culvert while the next steps are put in place for an upgrade or replacement.”