The 450-tonne crane will be used to to dismantle the 1902 De Burgh truss bridge over coming weeks. 

AN RMS spokesperson declared it was an “exciting day,” heralding a new era of travel across the Mulwaree River.

But for many it can’t come soon enough, given delays and a cost increase from an initial $7 million in 2009 to $18.6m. 

Mayor Bob Kirk has been previously vocal about the time taken and the increasing cost. Residents inconvenienced by the bridge’s closure since 2016 have also been outspoken.

“I certainly welcome the news that this long awaited work  is getting underway and that the project is on track to be completed by June, 2019,” Cr Kirk said.

Asked whether he was still receiving representations from the public about the delays, the Mayor said people had accepted the fact it wouldn’t happen any cheaper or quicker.

Initial work to demolish the bridge started last November with installation of new underground electricity cables and removing overhead power lines, an RMS spokesman said.

The demolition will be carried out on weekdays between 7am and 6pm and if required from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays. It is expected to take about eight to 10 shifts to complete, weather permitting.

The successful contractor to replace the structure was likely to be announced in June, the RMS spokesman said.

“The new bridge will also have wider road shoulders, improved approaches as well as a shared path for cyclists and pedestrians,” he said.

Before its closure, some 2100 vehicles used the bridge daily. The project is being jointly funded by the State and Federal governments.