As one bridge closes, another opens in Clarence Town

THE first stage of the new Clarence Town Bridge is now open to traffic, while the historic Brig O’Johnston Bridge closes for a major upgrade.

The new bridge will be transformative for heavy vehicle access to Clarence Town, allowing the return of 42.5 tonne semi-trailers.

Mayor Digby Rayward said seeing traffic move onto the new bridge was a proud moment for Dungog Shire Council and the Clarence Town community.

“It demonstrates the value of long-term planning and determined advocacy to improve critical local infrastructure.

“While this is not yet the end of the project, it is a significant step forward,” he said.

“I thank the Clarence Town community and all the road users of the bridge for their ongoing patience.

“I’m excited to see the entire project finalised later this year.”

The new Clarence Town Bridge is a significant piece of infrastructure, spanning 130 metres in length and 14.4 metres in width.

It features dual traffic lanes designed to accommodate heavy vehicles, as well as a new pedestrian walkway and upgraded road approaches and footpaths.

Single lane traffic will operate across the new bridge while construction work and upgrades continue.

Work on the project is expected to be complete early 2027.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said it will make a real difference to daily life, by improving access, reducing travel times and enhancing safety for people living, working and travelling to Dungog.

“Heavy vehicles will no longer have commit to a 52 kilometre detour to bypass the existing bridge, saving valuable time for truck drivers in the area,” she said.

“By partnering across state and federal levels, we’ve been able to deliver a safer, more reliable crossing that will serve the Clarence Town area for decades to come.”

With traffic now utilising the new Clarence Town Bridge, the heritage listed timber truss Brig O’Johnston Bridge has closed to traffic, marking the start of a major rehabilitation project.

The Federal ($11.8 million) and State ($11 million) governments are jointly investing in the project.

Work on the Brig O’Johnston Bridge will strengthen the structure to meet current vehicle loads requirements, reduce ongoing maintenance needs, and preserve its status as the oldest surviving timber truss bridge in NSW.

Rehabilitation work is expected to be completed by mid-2029.

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “This project will deliver a brand new, safer and more resilient crossing over the Williams River, alongside important work to restore and protect the heritage-listed Brig O’Johnston Bridge.

“The building of the new bridge and restoration of the former one have been carefully managed by Transport and Dungog Council to increase access, reduce the need for detours and maintain safety.

“This project is transformative for heavy vehicle operators, removing a 50-minute detour, a major inconvenience costing time and money.”