Decmil to undertake works on Structures Rehabilitation Program in VIC

Significant works are now underway to strengthen or replace about 11 culverts and bridges across Melbourne, as part of the Structures Rehabilitation Package (North and South East). 

The contract to undertake the works has been awarded to Decmil. 

The bridges that need upgrading include: 

• Barry Road over Craigieburn rail line near Coolaroo 
• Donnybrook Road near Donnybrook 
• Plenty Road over Barbers Creek at Yan Yean; and over Mernda Drain at Mernda 
• Wallan Road over Scrubby Creek near Whittlesea 
• Whittlesea-Yea Road near Whittlesea 
• South Gippsland Highway over Bunyip River near Tooradin; over Eumemmerring Creek at Dandenong South; over Hallam Main Drain at Dandenong South; over Moodys Inlet near Tooradin; and over Muddy Gates Creek near Tooradin 

“On the busy South Gippsland Highway a total of 5 water crossings will be upgraded, with these works to increase their lifespans and tonnage capacity. Among these include the bridge across Muddy Gates Creek at Tooradin, which carries around 10,000 motorists each day. 

“In some instances, these upgrades will also allow trucks to carry heavier loads, improving efficiency and reducing supply chain costs while also contributing to a strong economy. 

“Construction of a new culvert bridge on Donnybrook Road near Doreen will also begin, to ensure a key link in Melbourne’s burgeoning outer north remains safe and accessible,” Major Road Projects Victoria said in a statement. 

The Structures Rehabilitation Package aims to replace, strengthen, repair and rehabilitate bridges and culverts across Melbourne’s north and south-east as well as upgrade barriers to help improve safety. 

Works to remove and replace the structures could include: 

• Removing the existing bridge structure 
• Replacing it with a new one 
• Installing new safety barriers 
• Laying a new road surface 

On the other hand, works to rehabilitate structures could include: 

• Removing the existing surface 
• Making the structure stronger with additional steel or concrete 
• Laying a new road surface 

In addition, cathodic protection works will also be carried out at two locations to help protect against corrosion. 

This package of works is part of the $2.27 billion Suburban Road Upgrade – South Eastern Roads and Northern Roads package, which is a joint investment by the Australian and Victorian Governments with each contributing $1.1 billion. 

Works on the Structures Rehabilitation Package are due to be completed by 2023. 

Source: Victoria’s Big Build – Major Road Projects Victoria (1, 2); Roads & Infrastructure Australia