The designs for the new Kemp Street Bridge in Junee have been unveiled by Inland Rail. Photo: Supplied.
Junee residents can now take a look at the proposed designs for the new Kemp Street Bridge, part of Inland Rail’s works between Albury and Illabo.
Inland Rail is a 1600 km freight rail-line project that will connect Melbourne and Brisbane via the Riverina. It is being constructed by the Federal Government-owned Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC). The project is aimed at helping companies send their produce to big cities and ports faster and more efficiently.
A statement released by Inland Rail said the plans for the Kemp Street Bridge had undergone extensive planning to ensure it would be built safely.
“Developed in close collaboration with the NSW Government and Junee Shire Council, the new bridge has also been reviewed by the NSW State Design Review Panel – an independent group of built environment experts who assess the quality and functionality of major infrastructure projects,” the statement reads.
“The new elevated bridge will feature a pedestrian pathway designed to meet the accessibility standards of the 1992 Disability Discrimination Act, ensuring safe and inclusive access for all users.
“Heritage elements from the original bridge, including the iconic red brick abutments, will be thoughtfully incorporated into the landscaping where possible.
“Community members are invited to view the bridge designs and speak with project representatives at upcoming pop-up information sessions:
- Wednesday 20 August, 9 am to noon at Junee Railway Station Cafe, Railway Square
- Thursday 21 August, 2 pm to 5:30 pm at Junee IGA, 102 Broadway
- Friday 22 August, 10 am to 1 pm at Junee Library, 92 Lorne Street
Inland Rail is expecting the bridge to be completed by the end of 2027. Photo: Supplied.
Inland Rail Project Director for Albury to Illabo Malcolm Clark said completing the works swiftly would be vital to Inland Rail meeting its targets in 2027.
“The Kemp Street Bridge replacement is a vital step in delivering Inland Rail between Beveridge and Parkes by the end of 2027.
“The new bridge will bring lasting benefits to the Junee community, including safer pedestrian access, improved accessibility, and enhanced safety and usability.
“We’ve worked closely with Transport for NSW and Junee Shire Council to ensure the design meets all safety, environmental and technical standards.
“We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we progress these important works.”
The unveiling of the bridge plans comes only a week after it was reported that Inland Rail’s work to the Edmondson Street Bridge in Wagga would be postponed due to Transport for NSW and Wagga Wagga City Council deeming its traffic management plan unsatisfactory.
“Inland Rail has taken the decision to defer the closure of the Edmondson Street Bridge in Wagga Wagga from our initially anticipated closure date in September,” a representative said.
“This decision will allow us to work with the Wagga Wagga City Council and Transport for NSW on optimising the traffic management plan for the closure of the bridge, helping us to reduce inconvenience to Wagga Wagga residents as much as possible.
“Inland Rail hopes that the announcement of this decision will give Wagga residents some positive news in keeping the bridge open for longer and delaying disruption to their travel.”
Both projects are still expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
