New Cam River Bridge to open to westbound traffic ‘in the coming weeks’, Ferguson says

A new $19m bridge will open to westbound traffic “in the coming weeks” and the old bridge its replacing is slated for demolition, Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson says.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson. Picture: Chris Kidd

A new $19m bridge in the state’s North-West will soon open to westbound traffic amid simmering frustration from the local community and industry about safety and travel time on the Bass Hwy between Cooee and Wynyard.

The replacement Cam River Bridge at Somerset is higher than the original structure, which will lessen flood risk.

It also has wider lanes, a cycling lane, and a pedestrian pathway.

The original bridge was damaged during floods in October 2022, resulting in commuter delays and highlighting the need for a superior structure.

Construction works on the new Cam River Bridge. Picture: Supplied

Labor has said that “patience is starting to fade” for commuters waiting for the new bridge to be completed.

But Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said on Saturday that the project was running on schedule and the final stages of construction were now under way, with the westbound lanes set to open “in the coming weeks”.

“We are now waiting for a few consecutive days of suitable weather to complete the sealing of the westbound approach,” he said.

“Once that happens, we will be able to get the first cars onto the new bridge.

“We will let everyone know once we have a confirmed date.”

Eastbound traffic will be switched to the new bridge once the lane approaches are finished.

The project is expected to be completed in April.

The original Cam River Bridge will be demolished.