Transport for NSW has advised that work to prepare the site surrounding the John Foord Bridge at Corowa will start next week ahead of essential maintenance work to restore the Murray River landmark.
The 133-year-old iron lace bridge connecting the twin towns of Corowa in NSW and Wahgunyah in Victoria requires work to replace and strengthen the piers and sections of the timber approach spans on the NSW side.
Transport for NSW Regional Director South Cassandra Ffrench said in preparation for this work starting in September, a large tree needs to be removed from the site.
"This essential maintenance aims to improve the structural lifespan of the bridge and the safety of road users," Ms Ffrench said.
"Removal of a large gum tree and some surrounding branches is required to allow construction machinery to safely access the site when the bridge work starts in September.
"The tree is a Eucalyptus Camaldulensis, commonly known as a River Red Gum, which has the widest natural distribution of any eucalypt species and is commonly found along waterways.
"Aligning with Transport's biodiversity offset procedure, we will arrange for new trees to be planted in the area, in consultation with council and local Landcare."
The bridge upgrade project is expected to start in September and take about six months to complete, weather permitting.
There will be no impact to traffic during the tree removal, however the pedestrian walkway may briefly close for safety reasons.
The bridge rehabilitation project will involve piling, excavation and earthworks, concrete pumping, crane lifts and the use of drilling rigs. Other essential maintenance will also be carried out at this time.
Transport for NSW will keep the community updated as the project progresses.
