The City of Greater Bendigo are preparing to undertake a $1.4M project to repair the historic Wattle Street bridge across the Bendigo Creek and install a new separated pedestrian path.
City of Greater Bendigo Presentation and Assets Director Brian Westley said the Wattle Street bridge was originally constructed in 1915 and is an early example of bridges built with reinforced concrete beams, a technology that is still being used to this day.
"The repair works are required because the bridge's southern barrier was damaged in an accident and needs to be replaced. However, attaching a modern compliant barrier to an historic bridge requires extensive strengthening to the bridge deck," Mr Westley said.
"The work will also include the installation of a new, separated pedestrian path as there is currently no pedestrian access across the creek. The addition of a pedestrian path will especially prove beneficial to Girton Grammar students and their families during school pick up and drop off times and nearby residents wanting to safely cross the bridge.
"The City understands the works will cause some inconvenience. However, we trust residents will understand the importance of the project and why the works are necessary."
Works will include:
- Removal of existing asphalt pavement and existing barriers
- Strengthening of the bridge deck with carbon fibre reinforcing to support the new bridge barriers
- Installation of new barriers
- Installation of a new pedestrian path which will be bolted to the side of the existing bridge to support a new concrete deck widening
- Construction of new approach footpaths to link up with the new pedestrian path across the creek
- Installation of new asphalt pavement
The works will require a full closure of the bridge with work planned to commence in late January 2025 for an expected completion by June 2025.
While works are underway Creek Street North (school side) will remain open. However, Creek Street South between Wattle and Short Streets will be closed at the Wattle Street end.
Signage and detours will be in place for the duration of the project.
This $1.4M project is being funded entirely by the City of Greater Bendigo.
