Traffic diversions ahead in Brisbane as bridge restoration work begins

Drivers in Brisbane’s western suburbs have been warned to prepare for disruption as a major river crossing closes to traffic for more than two weeks for maintenance work.

The Walter Taylor Bridge will close to vehicles from 9pm on Friday to 5am on September 30 – the historic bridge’s longest closure in more than 30 years.

The 88-year-old structure is a major commuter corridor between Chelmer and Indooroopilly, and increased congestion in surrounding areas is possible, although the closure has been timed to take advantage of reduced traffic during Queensland’s school holidays.

The Walter Taylor Bridge at Indooroopilly will close for maintenance. Credit: Fairfax

A detour via the Centenary Highway is planned, which would add at least 15 minutes to a trip between Chelmer and Indooroopilly.

Brisbane City Council said the work involved removing and replacing the asphalt on the bridge. About 200 metres of concrete joints will also be resealed, with a new waterproof coat applied.

It said a full closure was required to minimise vibrations while the resin sealant sets, and to reduce the load during cable works.

Councillor Nicole Johnston was critical of the bridge closure, saying in a statement this week that the detours and plans were “grossly inadequate”.

“I cannot believe that this lord mayor and council cannot have an open and honest conversation with residents, nor provide them with timely advice to enable long-term planning for major disruptions,” she said.

Councillor Andrew Wines previously told this masthead the closure was taking place in September to allow commuters to make the most of 50-cent public transport.

“I know these works will mean many people have to temporarily change the way they travel, and I want to thank residents for their patience and understanding while we deliver this essential maintenance,” he said on Thursday.

Cycling groups, meanwhile, have encouraged riders to make the most of reduced traffic in the area, with the Jack Pesch Bridge, which runs parallel to the Walter Taylor, remaining open to pedestrians and cyclists.

“If you live in the local area and need to get across the Walter Taylor Bridge in the next couple of weeks, this is a great opportunity, if you’ve got that old bike sitting in your garage, to dust it off and give it a go,” Space for Cycling spokesman Chris Cox said.

“With no through traffic, it’s a rare chance to see how quiet and safe your local streets are when they’re not being used as a makeshift arterial road not designed for that purpose.”

Built by Indooroopilly Toll Bridge Ltd between 1931 and 1936, the bridge was designed by company director Walter Taylor.

Council said more than $6.8 million had been invested in the site in the past five years, with a further $2.2 million in maintenance under way.

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