Golden Ball Bridge Repairs Works Commence

The Andrews Labor Government is repairing the badly damaged Golden Ball Bridge at Everton Upper, following last December’s unprecedented rain in north east Victoria.

The bridge, which serves as a vital commuter and tourism connection, was closed to traffic for four weeks until a temporary bailey bridge was put in place to restore access in early January.

The complex design and repair works have been fast tracked given how significant this bridge crossing is to Beechworth and surrounds.

From 25 February Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) will begin preparing the site for major construction which will include the installation of new culverts to boost the bridge’s drainage and reduce the severity of future floods.

The existing structure will also be reinforced with new concrete supports to further strengthen and future proof the bridge.

To enable these significant works, some full closures of the bridge will be required throughout construction and RRV will keep the community informed of these planned disruptions ahead of time.

Existing traffic management will remain in place with a reduced speed limit of 40km/h on approach to the bridge and 10km/h over the bridge itself

Detours for heavy vehicles over 15 tonnes and wide loads will continue via Buckland Gap Road (no B-Doubles) and Chiltern-Beechworth Road (B-Doubles).

As noted by Minister for Roads and Minister for Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford

“We know how important the Golden Ball Bridge is to the Beechworth and surrounding communities. That’s why we’re fast-tracking repairs to restore this vital connection.”

“Crews worked throughout Christmas and New Year to get the bailey bridge installed, this next step in the process will ensure the bridge continues to service the community for years to come.”

/Public Release. View in full here.