A Roads and Maritime spokesperson said there will be more opportunities to maintain the bridge when the bypass of the town as part of the Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads Pacific Highway upgrade opens.

“The Macksville Bridge has served the community since 1931 and been a major thoroughfare for Pacific Highway travellers and also local motorists,” the spokesperson said.

“With less people relying on the Macksville Bridge to get from A to B, Roads and Maritime also has more of an opportunity to maintain the structure across the Nambucca River.

“Work will take place at night on Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 December and require the bridge to be closed to traffic at times.”

Part of the work involves testing the Macksville Bridge to determine the current load capacity of the structure and to ensure it’s safe for continued use by heavy vehicles transporting freight.

“The load testing involves a ‘crawl’ test at three loads plus ‘at speed tests’,” the spokesperson added.

“Motorists are advised delays of up to 10 minutes are expected while each test takes place and the community is thanked for its patience in advance.

“Electronic messaging signs will be in place along the Pacific Highway and local roads to warn motorists of the closures.”

READ MORE:

The cost of caring for our shire’s biggest bridges

And watch this space for the latest on when the handover of the Old Pacific Highway infrastructure to Nambucca Shire Council will occur – and what the final price tag will be.