Essential maintenance work underway to preserve the heritage listed Cooreei Bridge

MAINTENANCE work kicked off on Monday to upgrade the heritage-listed Cooreei Bridge over the Williams River east of Dungog.

The NSW Government is investing $7.3 million to rehabilitate the historic landmark on Stroud Hill Road.

Cooreei Bridge, which is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, is the first Henry Harvey Dare-type timber bridge built in NSW and one of only 15 historic bridges built in the Hunter before 1905.

The project involves replacing the bridge’s dilapidated timber abutments with concrete.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the upgrade is a major investment in both local infrastructure and the preservation of a unique piece of the region’s heritage.

“We know how important connectivity is for the Dungog community,” she said.

“As the last stop on the Hunter train line and a key crossing over the Williams River, I’m proud to announce the start of this important rehabilitation work which will ensure this iconic timber truss bridge is fit for purpose for many years to come.”

Preparation work started in late 2025, with the project expected to take around 16 months to complete, weather permitting.

While most of the work will be carried out underneath the span, the bridge will need to be temporarily closed at times to allow replacement of the abutments and reconnection of the bridge to Stroud Hill Road.

Transport for NSW will try to limit closures to minimise disruption to the community and will be notified in advance.

During the closures, all motorists will be detoured via Alison Road, Clarence Town Road, Mary Street and Dowling Street, which adds around 30 minutes to journeys.