The Minns Labor Government is kicking off vital work today to secure the future of the heritage listed Cooreei Bridge over the Williams River east of Dungog.
The Minns Labor Government is investing $7.3 million to rehabilitate this historic landmark on Stroud Hill Road - preserving a critical road link and preserving an iconic piece of the region's history for generations to come.
Cooreei Bridge, which is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, is the first Henry Harvey Dare-type timber bridge built in NSW and one of only 15 historic bridges built in the Hunter before 1905.
The project involves replacing the bridge's dilapidated timber abutments with concrete, giving the bridge the strength it needs into the future.
Preparation work started in late 2025, with the project expected to take around 16 months to complete, weather permitting.
While most of the work will be carried out underneath the span, the bridge will need to be temporarily closed at times to allow replacement of the abutments and reconnection of the bridge to Stroud Hill Road.
Transport for NSW will try to limit closures to minimise disruption to the community and will be notified in advance.
During the closures, all motorists will be detoured via Alison Road, Clarence Town Road, Mary Street and Dowling Street, which adds around 30 minutes to journeys.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:
"Cooreei Bridge is part of the Hunter's story, and we're making sure it has a future.
"This $7.3 million investment protects a critical local link while preserving one of the region's most important heritage bridges.
"The Minns Labor Government will strengthen the bridge, keep the community connected and ensure this landmark can serve Dungog for generations to come."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:
"This project is a major investment in both local infrastructure and the preservation of a unique piece of the region's heritage.
"We know how important connectivity is for the Dungog community. As the last stop on the Hunter train line and a key crossing over the Williams River, I'm proud to announce the start of this important rehabilitation work which will ensure this iconic timber truss bridge is fit for purpose for many years to come."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal:
"It's great to see this important project underway.
"Projects like this show you don't have to choose between preserving our history and delivering safe, "reliable infrastructure - you can and should do both.
"By strengthening Cooreei Bridge while protecting its heritage, we're making sure this local connection remains open and dependable for the community now and into the future."
