Pollocksford Road Bridge repairs push closure into 2026

THE Pollocksford Road Bridge will remain closed throughout 2026, with the Surf Coast Shire confirming this week specialist bridge engineers are required to guide the next stage of its repairs.

The bridge, which spans the Barwon River on the boundary of the Surf Coast and Golden Plains shires, has been closed to traffic since 2024 after structural issues were identified during a routine inspection.

A three-tonne load limit and reduced speed were initially introduced to keep the bridge open, but continued use by heavy vehicles placed the structure at risk, leading to its full closure.

The Surf Coast Shire said it had now received a concept design for replacing the bridge deck, but further technical assessment was required before the project could progress.

The proposed design includes a heavier replacement deck, which has raised concerns about the impact the additional permanent load will have on the bridge’s original bluestone piers. These piers support the structure and are protected under a heritage overlay.

To address the risk, the Shire has commissioned specialist bridge engineers to undertake a detailed assessment and advise whether further geotechnical investigations are needed to ensure the piers remain stable.

Acting chief executive Chris Pike acknowledged the frustration in the community over the prolonged closure of the bridge.

“We understand the ongoing closure is frustrating for locals, but we want to make sure we deliver a safe, long-term solution,” he said.

“We know it may appear that little has been happening on site, but a significant amount of work is taking place behind the scenes to make sure this is done thoroughly and properly.

“Taking the time now to fully assess the risks will help avoid further closures or additional repair works in the future.”

Once the advice from the specialist engineers is received, the Shire will open the project to tender, and a construction timeline will be developed once a contractor is appointed.

“Based on the current scope of works and the design work required, the bridge is expected to remain closed throughout 2026,” Mr Pike said.

“We’re sorry for the extended closure and appreciate the community’s understanding while we take the time to get this right.”

Projects of this complexity, he said, are not typically undertaken at a local government level, making specialist engineering advice critical to protecting both the structure and its heritage features.