Abergeldie has been selected as the successful contractor to build the New Dubbo Bridge across the Wambuul-Macquarie River, the floodplain and the adjoining road construction.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the project, which is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments, will improve traffic efficiency, reduce congestion for local, visiting and freight operators and commuters, and improve access across the Macquarie River floodplain during flood events.
“Recent severe weather events have once again highlighted the need for a second high-level crossing of the Wambuul-Macquarie River at Dubbo, to keep our city open in times of flood,” Mr Saunders said.
“The New Dubbo Bridge project will leave a lasting legacy not only in terms of travel in and through Dubbo, but also in terms of the new skills and experience it will provide for the local workforce.
“We’re very excited by what this project means for workers in Dubbo and western NSW, with a strong focus on engaging and supporting women, Aboriginal people, trainees, and young workers.”
Early works on the project commenced in August 2022 with the Brisbane Street and Darling Street intersection works now well underway.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said: “Twenty per cent of the qualified tradespersons working on the project must also be apprentices, providing those who are just starting out their career a chance to work on a legacy project that will change the shape of Dubbo”.
The New Dubbo Bridge is a $220.2 million investment, with major construction starting in early 2023 with a planned opening by late 2026.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said: “As we’ve seen in the recent flood events, roads and bridges are a vulnerable point which can leave communities cut off and put drivers at risk. The New Dubbo Bridge will transform the way residents and freight operators travel in and through Dubbo and western NSW”.
The project team is working on finalising the detailed design for the beautification of Wiradjuri Park with community consultation to commence this year, with the park required to be closed throughout construction. For more information, go to roads-waterways.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/dubbo-bridge/index.html.