The Minns Labor Government is today celebrating the restoration of one of NSW's great engineering landmarks, with the $39 million restoration of the Peats Ferry Bridge at Mooney Mooney now complete.
Built during World War II and opened in 1945, the bridge has stood as a symbol of connection and ingenuity for 80 years.
Now, after two years of hard work, the 80-year-old steel truss bridge, which links the Central Coast and Sydney across the Hawkesbury River, is once again shining bright and ready to serve local communities and motorists for decades to come.
Boasting one of the largest spans between piers of any steel truss road bridge in the state, it once held the record for the world's longest welded truss span.
More than 60 local workers were part of the project, which included a complete repaint, steel and concrete repairs, new traffic and pedestrian barriers and a full structural refresh to protect the bridge from damage.
The project was a joint effort between Transport for NSW and Sydney Trains, whose engineering expertise delivered the works on time and on budget.
The completion of works also means maritime restrictions on the Hawkesbury River have been reduced with channel markers removed from under most spans of the bridge, reopening the main navigational channel for boaters.
Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:
"This project is about preserving a piece of NSW history while making sure it's fit for the future.
"For 80 years, Peats Ferry Bridge has stood as a vital link between the Central Coast and Sydney, and a connection for families, freight and regional communities.
"The Minns Labor Government is investing in high-value, practical projects that strengthen local infrastructure, boost resilience and make a real difference for people who live and work in regional NSW."
Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris said:
"This is a great example of government agencies working together to deliver real outcomes for the Coast.
"While this is a road bridge, the expertise of Sydney Trains' Major Works team was invaluable. Their innovative approach kept the project on schedule and set a new benchmark for collaboration across Transport for NSW.
"It's wonderful to see this landmark restored and looking better than ever."
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch said:
"This bridge is part of the story of the Central Coast. Built in wartime, connecting communities and still doing its job 80 years later.
"The restoration not only preserves an iconic structure but also provides significant safety and access benefits for locals and visitors.
"I know the community will be thrilled to see the Peats Ferry Bridge restored and ready for another generation of use."
