New Clarence Town Bridge opens as historic crossing closes for restoration

newy.com.au – Traffic has begun using the first stage of the new Clarence Town Bridge, giving Clarence Town a safer crossing while the heritage-listed Brig O’Johnston Bridge closes for major restoration work.

The new bridge over the Williams River is now open to traffic in Dungog Shire, with single-lane operation in place while construction and upgrade works continue. The project is being jointly funded by the federal and NSW governments, with $11.8 million from the Australian Government and $11 million from the NSW Government.

The 130-metre-long, 14.4-metre-wide bridge includes two traffic lanes designed to carry heavy vehicles, a pedestrian walkway, upgraded road approaches and improved footpaths. Once fully operational, it is expected to allow 42.5 tonne semi-trailers to return to Clarence Town, reducing the need for heavy vehicles to take lengthy detours around the existing crossing.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the investment would improve daily travel for the region.

“The new Clarence Town Bridge will make a real difference to daily life. Improving access, reducing travel times and enhancing safety for people living, working and travelling to Dungog,” Ms King said.

“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.”

As traffic moves onto the new crossing, the Brig O’Johnston Bridge has closed temporarily so major rehabilitation work can begin. The timber truss bridge, described as the oldest surviving bridge of its type in NSW, will be strengthened to meet current vehicle load requirements, reduce ongoing maintenance and preserve its heritage value.

NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the project had been staged to keep the community connected while restoring the historic bridge.

“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,” Ms Aitchison said.

“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.”

Labor Spokesperson for Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal said the works would support long-term growth and liveability in Dungog, while preserving a structure built in the 1800s.

Dungog Mayor Digby Rayward said the opening of the new bridge to traffic was an important moment for Clarence Town.

“Seeing traffic move onto the new bridge is a proud moment for Council and the Clarence Town community. It demonstrates the value of long-term planning and determined advocacy to improve critical local infrastructure,” he said.

Work on the new Clarence Town Bridge project is expected to be completed in early 2027, while rehabilitation of the Brig O’Johnston Bridge is expected to be finished by mid-2029.