Parkes Shire Council is pleased to announce that on-site works are now commencing on the long-awaited Graddle Creek Bridge project along The McGrane Way, following a comprehensive process of land acquisition, design, and approvals.
Funded by the NSW Government and Parkes Shire Council, this critical infrastructure project has been awarded $7.99 million under the NSW Government's Fixing Country Roads program, with a total investment of $8.14 million.
Construction of the new bridge is expected to be completed and open to traffic by the end of 2026, weather permitting.
"Council is extremely pleased to have awarded the Graddle Creek Bridge contract to local Peak Hill-based company, Dearnu Pty Ltd," said Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott.
"With over 30 years' experience in bridge construction, Dearnu brings a wealth of regional expertise and capability, and it's fantastic to see a project of this scale being delivered by local industry."
The project will deliver a large bridge, eliminating the need for vehicles to cross the creek via the existing low-level causeway. Road realignments on either side of the bridge will also remove the dangerous dog-leg turn and provide safer, straighter approaches.
The current crossing at Graddle (Genaren) Creek has long been a concern for local residents, freight operators, and emergency services. The low causeway is highly vulnerable during flood events, causing frequent road closures and heavy vehicle detours of up to 218 kilometres.
"This project represents a critical investment in safety, resilience, and connectivity," the Mayor said.
"This bridge will deliver major productivity benefits for freight operators and producers who rely on this corridor. The avoided detour costs are estimated at around $600 per trip, so the benefits to the freight industry and the local economy will be significant."
The McGrane Way is a designated regional road train and AB Triple route linking Narromine, Parkes and Lachlan Shires. It is a vital corridor for transporting grain, livestock, and goods, as well as supporting proposed mining operations.
An estimated 265 vehicles per day use the route, including a high proportion of heavy vehicles.
With the successful completion of land acquisition, design, environmental approvals, and geotechnical investigations, Council is now moving into the delivery phase in partnership with Dearnu Pty Ltd.
Council acknowledges the strong community support for the funding application, with local organisations and residents providing letters of support that helped secure this transformational project.
"We're grateful for the NSW Government's funding support, and we look forward to working with Dearnu to deliver safer, more reliable access for our community and freight network," the Mayor said.
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said the NSW Government was pleased to see work progressing on Graddle Creek Bridge which is an important piece of infrastructure for the Parkes Shire.
"This new bridge at Graddle Creek will significantly improve safety through a wider, flood resilient concrete structure which will provide a more reliable route year-round".
"Importantly, this new crossing will boost local economic and community resilience supporting the farmers, businesses and residents of the shire and the wider Central West to stay connected and productive."
