The future of one of Tenterfield’s key transport links is taking shape, with construction starting today on the new 49-metre, three-span Molesworth Street concrete bridge over Tenterfield Creek.
The Federal and NSW Governments have pledged 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, being delivered by Tenterfield Shire Council, will replace an old bridge over Tenterfield Creek damaged in the February and March 2022 floods.
“It’s exciting to see the Molesworth Street Bridge Replacement Project is underway,” said Mayor Bronwyn Petrie.
“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.”
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.
“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,” said Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain.
Preliminary work on the bridge replacement was carried out in July 2024 with geotechnical work to inform the design of the bridge redevelopment.
“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,” said NSW Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin.
“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.”
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