Route confirmed for new bridge and road upgrade

Wednesday 30 October, 2019

The new Manilla Low Level Bridge and road upgrade will follow a route using Arthur Street and Rowan Street.

Tamworth Region Mayor Col Murray and State Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson made the joint announcement after property acquisitions were finalised clearing the way for the route to go ahead.

“It’s welcome news for Manilla residents – they have been waiting for the route to be determined since the funding for the project was announced at the start of this year,” Cr Murray said.

Mr Anderson said the announcement is great news for the almost 121,000 vehicles that cross the Namoi carrying about 985,000 tonnes of freight annually.

“The historic and narrow 110 metres-long bridge that was completed in 1886, is a bottleneck for traffic, he said. “The proposed $8.7M low-level bridge will save an estimated 48,000 kilometres and more than 6,800 hours of travel each year.

“It was possible to improve the Arthur Street and Rowan Street route by eliminating the ninety degree corners and having sweeping curves instead which improves safety and reduces possible noise impacts.

“This route means heavy vehicles won’t need to come to a stop to turn the corners.” 

Cr Murray said the four potential routes identified at the community information session in March were assessed in detail.

“A route suggested by community members using Langworthys Lane and River Street was also reviewed but it had several issues which mean it was not a workable option,” he said.

“I am confident Arthur Street and Rowan Street provides the best outcome overall.”

Now the preferred route has been announced the detailed design can start. It will take about six months and include:  Completion of the topographical survey;  Completion of the flood modelling;  Geotechnical investigations for the road and bridge foundations;  Review of Environmental Factors report; and  Road and bridge detailed design. Cr Murray said Council has been making contact with residents whose property adjoins the route to meet with them and discuss impacts to their property as a result of the project. Construction work is expected to start in March or April next year.

Project updates and other information can be accessed through the My TRC Online Community portal.

The project is proudly funded by the NSW Government as part of the Restart NSW Growing Local Economies program.