Changes to load limit on South Arm Bridge

Published on 15 February 2019

The load limit on the South Arm Bridge at Brunswick Heads has been reduced from 15 tonnes to 10 tonnes.  

The reason for this is because the condition of the bridge has deteriorated since the last bridge inspection and the safety of people using it is the number one priority for Council at this time.

Director of Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway, said the decision was necessary after an inspection by an independent engineering consultant recommended the reduction in the load limit.

“We apologise for any inconvenience but we hope you understand that the reduction in the load limit is necessary from a safety perspective,” Mr Holloway said. 

“Cars, four wheel drives and small trucks are still able to use the bridge but people driving larger trucks should check the weight of their vehicles,” he said.

At this stage, there will be no immediate interruption of Council services, such as garbage collection, as a result of the load reduction although there may be some changes to the way and times the bins are collected. 

Emergency Services have also been contacted about the change to the load limit and Council is negotiating with the Rural Fire Service about emergency access. 

There are also a number of residents, businesses and groups who will be affected by the change to the load limit and Council has been in touch with as many of these people as possible to let them know. 

Council has applied for grant funding for the refurbishment of the South Arm Bridge and we will know more about the success of this application in late April.

In the meantime Council will be doing necessary maintenance and works to ensure the bridge is safe.

For more information contact Annie Lewis, Media and Communications Coordinator, on 6626 7320.