BATHURST Regional Council has placed an order for a temporary replacement to be installed north of the city after part of an historic bridge was washed away during wild storms earlier this month.
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Howards Bridge, over Winburndale Rivulet, was thought to have been hit by a torrent of water that washed its timber deck away.
It has caused problems for residents of the area who have been forced to take a long detour into the city via Box Ridge Road that has been taking a toll on their vehicles.
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Mayor Graeme Hanger said on Wednesday afternoon that council was aware of the difficulties posed by the current detour, particularly in light of the need to source stock feed.
He said bushfire concerns and other issues, such as seeking medical treatment and school access, were also worries for residents.
He said council would seek to restore access as soon as practical.
“Council has placed an order for a single lane timber bridge which will be able to cater for a standard semi trailer load at 42.5 tonnes and also any sized school bus,” he said.
“It will be installed utilising the existing bridge abutment and piers.
“Work on the installation of the temporary bridge will commence in the near future and we hope to have the bridge open by the end of February or very early in March.
“This bridge will remain in place while planning and funding is sourced for the construction of a new bridge across Winburndale Rivulet.”
