The temporary crossing solution for Tiri Bridge, announced by MidCoast Council in early February, is now open to traffic.
The crossing opened to local traffic on Saturday 21 March, approximately two months ahead of schedule.
The Tiri Bridge was devastated by the May 2025 extreme flood event, with three of its six spans destroyed. The road had been closed since, with a substantial detour in place.
"The earlier than expected opening is thanks to a prompt delivery of materials, which allowed our team to commence work on the temporary crossing, using what was left of the damaged bridge to shorten the construction timeline," said Council's Director of Infrastructure & Engineering Services, Rob Scott.
"It's a great outcome for the local community, but this isn't the end of our works in the Tiri area."
Technical studies and design work are now underway for the bridge's permanent replacement.
"We know the load limit on the temporary crossing affects larger vehicles navigating the area. Our aim is to begin construction on the permanent replacement bridge next year," Mr Scott said.
The temporary crossing has a five-tonne load limit, meaning trucks still need to use alternative routes through Gloucester and Wingham.
Funding for the temporary crossing was provided by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.
For updates on road and bridge works, visit the Roads Hub: https://haveyoursay.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/midcoast-roads-hub.
