newy.com.au – A new two-lane bridge has opened to traffic at Melville, giving Maitland and Lower Hunter communities a more flood-resilient crossing of the Hunter River after decades of regular flooding.
The $8.2 million upgrade replaces the former one-lane timber Melville Ford Bridge with a modern concrete structure linking Aberglasslyn and Melville. The new bridge has been built 6.7 metres higher than the previous crossing, a change expected to significantly reduce flood-related closures and improve access during severe weather.
The crossing is designed to improve daily travel for residents, emergency services, school transport, freight operators and farmers, while helping communities remain better connected during floods and other emergencies. It also includes dedicated pedestrian access, parking and no weight restrictions, improving safety and access for all users.
The project was jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns governments and Maitland City Council. More than $2.5 million came through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements under the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package.
The NSW Government also contributed $2.5 million as part of an election commitment and $1.6 million through the Fixing Country Bridges Program, with Maitland City Council providing a further $1.6 million.
Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain said the project showed the value of governments working together on regional infrastructure.
“Flood-affected communities in Maitland and surrounding areas deserve infrastructure they can rely on, especially during times of extreme weather,” Ms McBain said.
Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said replacing the old timber crossing with a two-lane bridge would provide safer and more reliable access across the Hunter River.
“This project shows what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support regional communities,” she said.
NSW Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the upgrade would help families, workers and local businesses who rely on the route every day.
“People in the Hunter deserve roads that are safer, easier to use and fit for a growing community, and that is what this project delivers,” she said.
Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said the new bridge would mean fewer flood-related closures for residents and motorists throughout the year. Timber from the former bridge will be reused as riverside seating for the community.
