Works to upgrade the new Abercrombie River Bridge north of Taralga are progressing. Member for Hume Angus Taylor said the new bridge was part of a record investment in infrastructure.

Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the bridge replacement project, funded by the Australian and NSW governments and Upper Lachlan Shire Council, with work carried out by Oberon Council, would improve an important freight link between Oberon and Goulburn.

“The old timber bridge had been in operation since the 1950s and was severely deteriorated, having experienced floods and increasing vehicle use during its many decades of service,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

“The new concrete bridge and associated road approaches will provide safer access for the local community, including our farmers, as well as creating a new freight link for industry.

“It’s also going to provide new opportunities for tourism as well as other regional investment, demonstrating the brilliant outcomes that can be achieved when three levels of government work closely together.”

The NSW Government awarded $675,000 to the $1.5 million project as part of the Restart NSW Fixing Country Roads program.

The new 40m bridge is two-lane, suitable for B-doubles and will reduce the need for heavy vehicle detours of up to 100km.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade John Barilaro said the $543 million program was about delivering targeted investment in roads to improve freight links in regional NSW.

“Freight contributes more than $60 billion to the NSW economy each year so we are committed to reducing pinch points and creating new freight links to help keep that industry moving,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Projects like the replacement of Abercrombie River Bridge reduce operating costs and provide new investment opportunities for local industry.”

Member for Hume Angus Taylor said the new bridge was part of a record investment in infrastructure by the Australian Government, in partnership with state and local governments.

“I was travelling from Goulburn to Oberon not long ago and was really impressed with the scale of this project,” Mr Taylor said.

“Many millions of dollars are being spent across Hume on infrastructure upgrades like the Abercrombie River Bridge to improve our road corridors, and get us there faster and safer.”

Upper Lachlan Shire Council Mayor John Stafford said, when completed, the new bridge will significantly improve access and road safety for local road users as well as visitors to the Shire.

“On behalf of Upper Lachlan Shire Council I would like to thank the Australian and NSW Governments for their funding contributions, which in addition to $88,000 in funding from Council, has made this project possible. I would also like to thank Oberon Council for working with us to bring this project to fruition.” 

Mayor of Oberon Kathy Sajowitz said “This project has been a great opportunity to work with our neighbouring Council for the benefit of residents and visitors to both Shires. The new bridge will provide substantial improvements to the safety of this route and will enhance the experience for travelers along The Tablelands Way. Oberon Council is proud to have partnered with Upper Lachlan Shire Council in this project.” 

The new bridge is expected to open to traffic next month.