The replacement of Narrabri Shire’s ageing timber bridges continues with work to start on replacement of one of the oldest.

Horsearm Creek bridge is destined for demolition to make way for a new two lane structure.

The council has accepted a tender from Saunders Civilbuild, builders of the Tarriaro bridge, for the design and construction of replacement bridges at Horsearm Creek and Spring Creek.

The total project costs for the Horsearm Creek Bridge and Spring Creek Bridge replacements are $1,405,800 and $1,417,900 respectively.

Horsearm Creek Bridge on Narrabri’s eastern outskirts is one of the oldest in the shire.

Generations of travellers have used the bridge when it was part of the old Newell Highway and generations of local people have travelled across it on the way to the old cemetery, Narrabri racecourse, Bailey Street and Little Mountain.

The council has secured $1.4 million in funding from the Australian government’s, Bridge Renewal Program with council co-contributing approximately an additional $1.4 million to complete the project.

This contract involves the demolition and removal of the existing timber structures and the design and construction of the two new dual lane bridges and associated works.

“The award of the contract to complete both Horsearm Creek and Spring Creek timber bridge projects is a significant milestone and we should see the project commence soon” said council’s general manager Stewart Todd.

“Replacing these timber bridges will significantly improve safety and accessibility for locals and the agricultural community in moving product and machinery to and from the farm gate.

Council will keep the community informed of when the works will commence as well as progress on both bridges.

A detour will be established for the Horsearm Creek bridge construction works.

To order photos from this page click here