After decades of regular flooding, communities across Maitland and the lower Hunter now have a safer, more reliable connection across the Hunter River, with the new bridge at Melville officially open to traffic.
The $8.2 million upgrade replaces the former one-lane timber Melville Ford Bridge with a modern two-lane concrete crossing linking Aberglasslyn and Melville. The new bridge has been raised 6.7 metres above the previous structure, significantly reducing flood-related closures and improving access during severe weather events.
The upgraded crossing will improve day-to-day travel for local residents, emergency services, school transport, freight operators and farmers, while supporting stronger connections between communities during floods and other emergencies.
The new bridge includes dedicated pedestrian access, parking and no weight restrictions, improving safety and accessibility for all users.
The project was jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments and Maitland City Council, including more than $2.5 million through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements under the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package.
The Minns Labor Government also contributed a further $2.5 million as part of an election commitment and $1.6 million through the Fixing Country Bridges Program, alongside a $1.6 million contribution from Maitland City Council.
While the old bridge has made way for a safer and more resilient crossing, part of its history will remain, with timber from the former structure repurposed into riverside seating for the community to enjoy.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:
"This investment is a great example of governments working together to deliver for regional communities by improving safety, accessibility and resilience for locals now and into the future.
"Flood-affected communities in Maitland and surrounding areas deserve infrastructure they can rely on, especially during times of extreme weather.
"The new bridge stands as a lasting legacy of recovery, resilience and support for the Maitland community."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson MP:
"This new bridge is a game changer for Maitland and surrounding communities. By replacing the old one-lane timber crossing with a modern two-lane structure, we're delivering safer, more reliable access across the Hunter River.
"This project shows what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support regional communities. Investing in resilient infrastructure like this new bridge at Melville helps ensure locals can stay connected, even in the face of severe weather events."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:
"This upgrade was a no-brainer. People in the Hunter deserve roads that are safer, easier to use and fit for a growing community, and that is what this project delivers.
"Every day, families, workers and local businesses rely on this road. These improvements will help people get where they need to go more safely and with less frustration.
"This is what good government looks like - agencies working together to solve real problems and deliver practical improvements that make a difference in people's daily lives."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:
"This bridge is more than a transport link - it's a lasting investment in the safety, resilience and future of the Maitland community.
"The opening of this bridge delivers on our election commitment to deliver safer and more reliable road networks in the regions.
"Following damage to the partially constructed bridge caused by the May and August flood events last year, it is great to see this bride opening and providing the infrastructure this community deserves and needs."
Quotes attributable to NSW Government Spokesperson for the Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal MLC:
"We know how important it is for our regional communities to stay connected.
"This upgrade means safer journeys, stronger connections and a more resilient future for the Maitland community."
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Maitland City Council, Cr Philip Penfold:
"I'm proud to see the new and improved Melville's Milton Morris Bridge delivered for our community.
"The new structure is higher, stronger and more flood resilient than the former river crossing which will ensure there are fewer flood-related closures for residents and motorists throughout the year.
"I'd like to thank the community for their patience during construction and our contractor, Saunders Civilbuild for getting the project back on track following last year's flooding."
