Bridge build under way

ROADS authorities have kicked off a construction project that will replace a bridge over Wye River on the Great Ocean Road.

As part of preliminary work, Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) will remove water tanks in the Foreshore Caravan Park and one located behind the caretaker’s building.

Reduced speed limits will be in place, but no lane closures.

The traffic changes will end once the water tanks are removed, expected to be towards the end of this next month, to enable two lanes of traffic to remain open during summer months.

From April next year RRV will begin demolishing and replacing the bridge half at a time, to enable one lane to remain open.

The replacement will include building a retaining wall on the ocean side and widening of the road on both sides of the bridge.

RRV said its staged approach intended to create as little disturbance as possible for residents and visitors.

“Our priority is to improve safety and access on the Great Ocean Road by replacing the bridge at Wye River, with the least possible disruption to the community and local business.

“To maintain two-lane, two-way traffic during the peak tourist season, we’ve determined that construction over two years will provide the best possible outcomes.”