The final asphalt layer, which will effectively smooth our the existing bumps at the bridge expansion joints, is due to take place June 13-14, weather permitting, a Port Macquarie-Hastings Council spokesperson said.

The shared pedestrian path, on the southern side of the bridge, is complete however it is not expected to be opened to the public until the old bridge has been demolished.

“This is due to the need for the demolition contractors to be continuously using the shared path on the Laurieton side of the project as the old bridge structure is dismantled and removed from site,” the spokesperson said.

“Following the successful completion of all water and sewer connections onto the new bridge in the last week, the demolition of the old bridge has commenced with the removal of now redundant pipework.

“The demolition process for the old bridge structure itself is expected to be in full swing within the next month and continue through to September.

“The bridge construction contractor has overcome several challenges regarding the water and sewer main connections from the old bridge onto the new bridge over the past two months. These challenges have delayed the commencement of the demolition of the old bridge structure.

“Notwithstanding the delays, the council remains working closely with NSW Public Works as the project managers and the Waterway Constructions to bring the project to completion as soon as practicable.”