A 43-metre-long span over Wambanumba Creek is one of four recently completed bridges in the Hilltops LGA that will improve freight access and enhance road safety.
The Wambanumba Creek Bridge was officially opened today by the Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke, alongside the Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack and Hilltops Council Mayor Margaret Roles.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said due to structural issues, the previous bridge had been out of action for some years, but now an important connection has been returned for freight vehicles, school buses and general traffic.
“This new bridge ensures around 150,000 tonnes of essential agricultural produce like farm feed, eggs, grain and livestock can be transported more efficiently,” Ms Cooke said.
The replacement Wambanumba Creek Bridge received $1.23 million in funding through NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads program in 2019.
“In addition to this project, the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads program has also funded the $2.46 million Hannons Bridge on Murringo Gap Road, the $2.58 million Cudgell Creek Bridge on the Old Forbes Road, along with the $2.26 million Spring Creek Road bridge development,” Ms Cooke added.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said projects such as Hannons Creek Bridge, which resulted in a wider concrete structure suitable for B-Double truck access, will help boost the local area’s economy.
“The Hannons Creek Bridge project will reduce travel times for over 4,000 heavy vehicle movements a year, helping cut costs for the freight industry,” Mr Farraway said.
“There will also be safety benefits as heavy vehicles can connect more directly with major routes and there will be reduced wear and tear on local roads.” Since the commencement of the Fixing Country Roads program, Hilltops Council has received more than $17 million, including $10 million for bridge replacements, upgrades and repairs and $7 million for other road projects to improve freight access.
