A significant project milestone has now been reached, with tenders open for the design and construction of the new bridge crossing over the Macleay River. The tender opened on 2 September 2026 and closes on 19 October 2026.
The tender covers the design and construction of the new single-lane bridge at Jimmys Point, together with the associated road approaches. The bridge and approaches form part of the broader Toose Road realignment that will reconnect affected properties with Kempsey-Armidale Road.
The concept design includes a 135-metre-long bridge designed to accommodate farm vehicles, heavy vehicles and higher mass limit vehicles, including 19-metre semi-trailers. The bridge will feature a 4.5-metre-wide carriageway with shoulders on each side and has been designed with a 100-year lifespan. Due to the relatively low traffic volumes expected, the crossing will operate as a single-lane bridge with waiting bays provided at each end to allow vehicles to pass safely.
The proposed crossing has been designed to remain accessible during more frequent flood events. However, like many rural bridges and river crossings, it is expected to be overtopped during larger floods and has been designed accordingly.
As part of the tender process, a contractor briefing and site visit will be held on 17 September 2026. Residents may notice contractor vehicles and personnel in the area on that day.
Following the close of tenders on 19 October, submissions will be evaluated and a report presented to Council at its November meeting. Subject to Council’s decision, a preferred contractor will then be appointed.
The successful contractor will complete the detailed design before constructing the bridge and associated road approaches. As a result, the concept drawings shared with the community show the proposed layout and key features of the project, but do not represent the final construction drawings, which will be refined during the detailed design phase.
Construction timing has not yet been confirmed and will depend on Council’s decision, final environmental approvals and completion of project delivery requirements.
We recognise the significant impact the loss of Toose Road has had on residents and landholders over the past four years. While there is still work ahead, the release of the tender marks an important step forward and provides a clear pathway towards restoring reliable vehicle access to affected properties.
Learn more at Toose Road landslip
