The funding, from through NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads program, will allow council to construct a two-lane cement bridge over the Boonoo Boonoo River on Mt Lindesay Road, and new bridges over Emu Creek on Hootens Road and Beaury Creek on Tooloom Road.  

Construction of the three structures is expected to start this year, with council installing interim spans over the waterways to allow the free flow of heavy vehicle traffic until the works are completed.

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Mr George said securing funding for timber bridges has been the top priority for Tenterfield Shire Council over the past two years.

“The load limits on timber bridges have been one of the biggest issues facing industry in the Tenterfield Shire. With restrictions on bridges, primary producers have faced long detours to move produce and livestock, increasing their fuel and transport costs.

“Tenterfield Council identified the bridges over the Boonoo Boonoo River, Emu Creek and Beaury Creek as high priority and I am proud to say the Nationals in Government have been able to deliver this funding which will aid in getting the road network moving again,” Mr George said.

In January, the NSW Government announced $2.77 million to allow Tenterfield Shire Council to assess other timber bridges, prioritise maintenance and install interim measures which would allow the swift removal of load limits. 

Nationals candidate Austin Curtin said this announcement is only the start of a larger bridge replacement program for the shire.

“Our freight trucks carry our food, produce and raw materials which support the local community. This funding means freight vehicles will get to where they need to be in the most direct and efficient way possible.

“There are more than 50 timber bridges in the Tenterfield Shire that are in desperate need of upgrading and repair. My job if elected as your representative will be to continue to work with council in fighting for its share of funding, to maintain and upgrade other bridges across the shire.”