TRAFFIC ALERT 
19 NOVEMBER 2009 
 
MORPETH BRIDGE UPGRADE 
 
Morpeth Bridge will be closed to traffic and pedestrians for up to five days later this 
month as part of the upgrade of the approach spans to the bridge.  
 
An RTA spokesperson said the bridge would be closed from 9.30am on Thursday, 26 
November, to 3pm on Monday, 30 November 2009. Detours around the bridge will be 
in place between these times.  
 
One detour is available via Maitland using the Belmore Bridge over the Hunter River 
at Maitland, and then Dunmore Bridge over the Paterson River at Woodville, the 
spokesperson said. 
 
The other detour is via Raymond Terrace using Irrawang Bridge over the Hunter 
River at Nelsons Plains. 
  
The RTA will be replacing four approach spans on the northern side of the river with 
concrete and timber decks. Work will also include placing asphalt on the 
top layer of 
the retaining wall section of the roadway approaches.  
 
Work on the Morpeth township side includes 
the installation of new 
foundation 
supports for the roadway approaches, as well as drainage and road improvements 
the spokesperson said.  
 
The composite decks are the same as the four adjacent spans replaced in July this 
year. This will leave two approach spans for replacement during the final bridge 
closure, scheduled for mid-2010. 
 
The upgrade of Morpeth Bridge approach spans is scheduled to be completed by 
June 2010, weather permitting, the spokesperson said.  
 
The RTA appreciates the co-operation of residents and motorists while this important 
work is carried out.  
  
 
CONTACT:  
 
 
 
 
 
RTA Media Unit   8588 5999