Traffic restrictions on Tarro Rail Bridge to continue
Motorists are advised that traffic restrictions over the Tarro Rail Bridge will remain in place for at least four more weeks in order to carry out essential repair work.
Transport for NSW Director North Region Anna Zycki said Transport for NSW had to take the unexpected and urgent step of closing lanes on the Tarro Rail Bridge last Saturday as a safety measure for all road users.
“A plan to undertake the repair work in the safest and quickest possible time frame is being prepared by specialist bridge engineers,” Ms Zycki said.
“Currently, there is one lane closed in each direction on the New England Hwy at the Tarro Road over-rail bridge and the speed limit is reduced to 60 km/h.
“The bridge is also closed to Class 1 and any vehicles that weigh 69 tonnes and over. We are also encouraging other Heavy Vehicle operators to take alternate routes wherever possible and relieve pressure on the area as well as avoid delays”.
“We are aiming to complete the repairs within four weeks but we would like to communicate that the work may take at least four in the event crews experience any unforeseen challenges, such as bad weather.
“We recognise and apologise for the timing of these restrictions, however the safety of all road users is our number one priority.
“We are encouraging everyone who use the route to allow extra travel time, consider alternative routes, or to take public transport whenever possible to avoid being held up.”
Ms Zycki said this timeframe gives the freight industry and others who rely on this crossing planning certainty so they can make appropriate arrangements while these restrictions are in place.
“We acknowledge the restrictions are causing significant delays during some times of the day,” Ms Zycki said.
“We are finalising the design and work schedules and are working through the issues to get workers onto the bridge safely while keeping vital road and rail services operating as best as possible.
“We again apologise for the inconvenience the lane restrictions are causing, and thank road users and the local community for their patience as we do everything we can to ensure everyone completes their journeys safely.”
Transport for NSW also advises that there is no detour for heavy vehicles greater than 5.2 metres in height and/or wider than 7.5 metres and/or greater than 35 metres in length.
For all other restricted heavy vehicles, the detour arrangements are via Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Newcastle Link Road.
For the safety of all road users, Transport for NSW will continue to use existing CCTV cameras in the area to monitor traffic.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time, drive to the conditions and follow the direction of traffic control and signage.
Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time.
For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.