Darren Chester

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

John Williams

Senator for New South Wales

14 September 2017

Two new bridges will be built in the Cessnock City Council area with funding announced in Round Three of the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program.

The Nationals Duty Senator for Hunter John Williams said he is delighted to announce that the bridge at Paynes Crossing will be replaced with a contribution from the Australian Government of $667,000 with Cessnock Council to fund the balance of the $1.33 million project.

Senator Williams said funding of $437,000 is being provided for the replacement of Whitings Bridge with the total replacement cost being $875,000.

He said previously the government had announced 50% funding for the new structure to replace Fosters Bridge in Cessnock City Council area, and for the replacement of the Brookers Bridge in Singleton Council area.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the $162.53 million funding toward Round Three of the Bridges Renewal program was in addition to the $216 million committed under the first two rounds.

“The renewal and upgrade of 186 bridges under this round will deliver social and economic benefits throughout regional Australia,” Mr Chester said.

The Federal Government’s financial commitment in this round will be matched by successful proponents. To allow for a wider distribution of projects, the Australian Government’s contribution under round three has been limited to $5 million per project.

For more information on the program, including a full list of successful Round Three projects is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/bridges.