The old Ripley Road Timber Bridge will be closed from Monday (29 April) until early 2020 while it undergoes urgent repairs.
Ipswich City Council has identified the need to replace the bridge, originally constructed circa 1945.
About 500 vehicles use the bridge every day.
Infrastructure Services Chief Operating Officer Charlie Dill said bridge inspections have shown it to be in poor structural condition and its load bearing capacity is not to standard.
“Replacing the bridge is more cost effective than rehabilitating the existing structure,” he said.
“The current bridge will be replaced with a structure of the same length and width. Expanding the bridge width would require significant road works which funding will not permit at this time.”
Mr Dill said the tender has not yet been awarded. Procurement for design and construct services will be undertaken soon. It is expected that construction will commence in July 2019 and be completed within six to nine months from commencement.
“The condition of the bridge has deteriorated, and despite council’s efforts to reduce the load limit (currently 4T), this is not being adhered to. The bridge is now a safety concern for council and its closure is required,” he said.
A traffic detour will be put in place, taking traffic via Providence Parade, Parkway Avenue and Bayliss Road.
“As the completed works will be of benefit to residents and the community at large, your co-operation and patience will be greatly appreciated,” he said.
For further information, you can call the project team on 3810 6666 or email [email protected].
has the Ripley road bridge replacement been forgotten?
seems to be no progress on it with the road closed