The Cedar Party Creek Bridge detour will open at 5am on Monday 23 September, with the current bridge closing to traffic to allow work to begin on its replacement.
During construction of the new bridge over Cedar Party Creek at Wingham, the intersection of Wingham Road, Wynter and Combined Streets will be closed, and bridge traffic will follow a detour over a low-level bypass to the west of the current bridge.
The bypass will be open at all times unless water levels make it unsafe. If the bypass is closed due to flooding, flashing light signage will alert motorists. Temporary turnaround bays will be provided either side of the bypass to allow vehicles to turn around. If the bypass is closed, motorists will be required to use alternate routes, including Tinonee Road, Gloucester Road, and The Bucketts Way.
The bypass has been designed for vehicles up to 12.5m, with checking vehicles, semi-trailers, and B-doubles, able to pass each other by keeping left. Council will monitor the situation and impose restrictions on semi-trailer and B-double usage if circumstances require it.
The new bridge will bring many benefits to the Wingham community and commuters alike. It will be elevated to meet or exceed the 100-year flood level, and will provide a safer, more comfortable ride across Cedar Party Creek and into the town of Wingham. The project also includes a new roundabout at the Wingham Road, Wynter and Combined Streets intersection, which will allow for better traffic flow in the area.
"As the gateway to Wingham, the bridge is a vital regional road connecting communities and supporting local industry," said MidCoast Council's Director Infrastructure and Engineering Services, Robert Scott.
"We appreciate the cooperation and patience of Wingham residents while we undertake this important improvement.
"We know the temporary lack of pedestrian access will cause an inconvenience for some in the community. Unfortunately, the bypass is not safe for foot traffic, and we don't have the budget to construct a temporary pedestrian crossing."
MidCoast Council manages the second-largest road network in NSW. With a relatively small rate-paying population across the area, the transport asset budget is stretched.
The Cedar Party Creek Bridge replacement is a $39 million project which includes a $19.5 million grant from the NSW Government's "Fixing Country Bridges" program.
Road users should expect changed traffic conditions and are encouraged to slow down and take extra care when driving in or near the construction area.
Completion of the new bridge is expected in late 2025.
