The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has announced the successful completion of the Gap Bridge Replacement project in the Liverpool Plains region.
Delivered in partnership with contractor John Holland, the project involved the replacement of the life-expired steel rail bridge at Werris Creek and delivered a new concrete ballast top structure, improving the safety and reliability of the bridge for future operations.
In just four days during a scheduled 96-hr track closedown in early August 2024, ARTC and John Holland teams efficiently removed the existing bridge and installed a new five-span 80m-long concrete bridge, which included the construction of 160m of new track.
The new bridge is now fully operational and designed to meet modern safety standards and support increased rail traffic, contributing to the overall efficiency and reliability of the rail network in the Hunter Valley.
Wet weather impacted the project with heavy rain and significant flooding causing erosion on Gap Road and delaying its reopening.
ARTC worked with Liverpool Plains Shire Council to have the road repaired as quickly as possible.
This project reflects ARTC’s commitment to continuous improvement and investment in vital infrastructure, facilitating smoother and more reliable rail operations, benefiting both freight and passenger services in the region.
ARTC Group Executive Operations, Clinton Crump, said, “The Hunter Valley region serves as a vital corridor for transporting goods, connecting various industries and communities.
“We are pleased to have delivered the Gap Bridge Replacement Project, which will contribute to the overall reliability of the rail network in the Hunter Valley, a critical rail corridor in our network.
“The ARTC and John Holland teams extend their gratitude to the local community and stakeholders for their support and patience throughout the project, particularly with the extended closure of Gap Road.”
