Works will get underway to bring this 114-year-old timber truss bridge back to its former 42.5 tonne load limit.
The single lane Scabbing Flat Bridge, which sits over the Macquarie River on Arthurville Road, just south of Geurie, in NSW, had its load limit reduced to 16-tonne in late 2023.
This was after Transport for NSW (TfNSW) conducted a bridge inspection that revealed part of the timber structure had deteriorated.
“Further investigations then revealed more extensive deterioration of the bridge, requiring Transport for NSW to extend the load limit until a suitable repair solution is implemented,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.
“From Monday 29 July, machinery and materials will begin to be assembled for strengthening work to start on the historic bridge so that it can once again support heavy vehicle traffic up to 42.5 tonnes.
“Work will involve replacing decaying timber, installing temporary support systems, repairing piers, and replacing cross girders and stringers to provide structural integrity to the bridge.”
The strengthening works are expected to allow the current load limit to be removed by early 2025, weather permitting.
Transport for NSW said it will continue to implement the 16-tonne load limit on the bridge until the strengthening work has been completed in order to protect the bridge structure and allow work to safely take place.
A marked detour will be in place for heavy vehicles greater than 16 tonnes.
Work will take place on weekdays between 7am and 4pm from Monday July 29, weather permitting.
“Motorists should follow the directions of all traffic control, including the reduced 40 km/h speed limit during work hours, which may affect travel times,” TfNSW added.
“It is expected some repair work will need to be carried out under full bridge closures. Once these dates have been scheduled, Transport for NSW will provide these to the community.”
Detour route for heavy vehicles via Wellington:
Vehicles need to detour via Renshaw McGirr Way/ Suntop Road/ Arthurville Road. Allow 25 minutes of extra travel time.
Detour route for heavy vehicles via Dubbo:
Vehicles need to detour via Obley Road/ Eulandool Road/ Nubingerie Road/ Benolong Road/ Arthurville Road. Allow 45 minutes of extra travel time.