June 2, 2020

A load limit is now in place for the Orange Grove Road bridge located 30km from the Kelvin Road turn-off and 6km from the Rushes Creek junction.

The bridge now has a gross 20 tonne maximum limit to ensure safety for road users.

The bridge includes a timber structure that is close to 100 years old, with a concrete deck added in the past two decades.

Gunnedah Shire Council chief engineer Daniel Noble said the age and condition of the structure meant it was a necessary safety precaution to introduce a weight limit.

But Mr Noble stressed the bridge remained safe for vehicles less than the 20 tonne maximum limit to use.

“The load limit will remain in place for the foreseeable future,” Mr Noble said.

“Heavy vehicles with a gross tonnage of less than 20 tonnes can continue to use the bridge.

“Heavy vehicles with a gross tonnage more than 20 tonnes, will need to find an alternative route such as Kelvin Road, Bloomfield Street and the Oxley Highway.”
The school bus route will not be impacted.

Residents within the area who would like to be kept updated on the Orange Grove Road bridge can send an email to council@infogunnedah.com.au or contact Gunnedah Shire Council on 6740 2100.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.