Joint media release with the Hon Janelle Saffin MP and the Hon Jenny Aitchison MP
The future of one of Tenterfield's key transport links is taking shape, with construction starting on the new Molesworth Street concrete bridge over Tenterfield Creek, paving the way for a safer, more resilient and reliable crossing for the community.
The Albanese and Minns governments are providing more than $9.9 million through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package under the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to improve the bridge's resilience to future floods and natural disasters.
This project, delivered by Tenterfield Shire Council, will replace an old bridge over Tenterfield Creek damaged in the February and March 2022 floods. Work on the new 49-metre, three-span concrete bridge will commence on Monday 24 August.
The project will also include the replacement of the sewer line with an upgraded creek crossing including new support structure. There will be a shared pedestrian and cycle path on the bridge, creating a safer route for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.
There will also be upgrades to the Molesworth Street approaches and sections of the Tenterfield Township Shared Cycleway to seamlessly connect with the new bridge.
To allow works to be carried out safely, temporary traffic and pedestrian changes will be in place throughout construction. Molesworth Street will be closed to through-traffic between Scott Street and Duncan Street for the duration of the works.
Access for local residents and the Tenterfield Bowling Club will be maintained at all times.
Preliminary work on the bridge replacement was carried out in July 2024 with geotechnical work to inform the design of the bridge redevelopment.
We thank the community for their patience and understanding while this important infrastructure upgrade is delivered.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain
"This is an exciting project for residents, commuters and freight operators travelling on Molesworth Street Bridge, which provides an important link to New England and beyond.
"The Albanese and Minns governments are proud to be investing in building infrastructure so that it's even better than before, to withstand severe weather events like storms and flooding.
"This recovery approach means roads and other transport assets may be able to stay open longer during a disaster and reopen soon after the disaster has passed, speeding up recovery for local communities."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison
"Delivering a stronger and more reliable Molesworth Street Bridge is about putting the safety of the Tenterfield community first.
"The new bridge will provide a safer crossing for everyone who relies on it every day, and most importantly, it will keep people connected when it matters most.
"Following damage caused by the 2022 floods, this investment will give the community a piece of infrastructure that will serve families for years to come."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin
"As the local member, I have driven and walked over the Molesworth Street Bridge many times, and I know firsthand just how vital this crossing is for our Tenterfield community."
"This project is about building back better. Ensuring our infrastructure is built to withstand future severe weather events so local residents, businesses, and emergency services stay connected during disasters.
"By bringing all three levels of government together, we are supporting Tenterfield Shire Council to deliver this crucial $9.9-million project. Working side by side, we are giving our community the safer, more resilient infrastructure it deserves."
Quotes attributable to Senator for NSW Tim Ayres
"Good infrastructure makes a real difference to everyday life, and this new bridge will be an important asset for the Tenterfield community for years to come.
"This joint investment from the Australian and New South Wales governments is helping deliver practical improvements that will make it easier and safer for local residents, businesses and visitors to get around town."
Quotes attributable to Mayor Bronwyn Petrie
"It's exciting to see the Molesworth Street Bridge Replacement Project is underway.
"This is an important project for Tenterfield that will deliver long-term benefits for our community. Once complete, the new bridge will improve safety and accessibility while providing a better connection for residents, visitors and road users.
"Council is grateful for the support of the Australian and NSW governments in making this project possible. We appreciate these works will cause some temporary inconvenience, and I thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and understanding while construction is carried out."
