Work to replace the timber structure with a steel and concrete bridge started on Thursday, March 15.

The work was originally set to start at the beginning of March, however not all residents impacted were initially contacted. 

As part of the work by John Holland Rail the road alignment approaching the bridge will also be improved.

Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams said the old ‘Tin Bridge’ as it’s known since being built in the 1930s has reached its use by date.

“Construction of a new bridge to replace the old bridge on Herons Creek Road, between Kew and Herons Creek is expected to take approximately six months,” she said. 

Mrs Williams said a new bridge will allow for more efficient movement of freight and commodities, due to the removal of a longstanding load restriction. 

A spokesperson from John Holland said the two-way bridge will be a big improvement on the old structure which required frequent and costly maintenance.

“We are grateful to the community for their patience and cooperation while this work is completed,” he said. 

Traffic will be diverted to Logan’s Crossing Road, Graham Street and Kendall Road during the work. The bridge is expected to open by August 2018.

This was given its name as the original side rails were lined with metal sheets (probably galvanised sheets that rusted in short period of time). 

It was constructed pretty much the same it is today with wooden piers and wooden planks. Maintenance has continued over the years due to white ants plus wear and tear. 

It was erected when the Northern Rail line was constructed in 1914-15. Herons Creek Road was actually the Pacific Highway for many decades until the town was bypassed in the 1939-44 period. This bridge has been the main connection to the town for heavy or over height vehicles to this present day. 

It holds a significant heritage value. It is said that the co-ee marchers walked through Herons Creek across this bridge to Kew.