By Luke Voogt
A large section of the Great Ocean Road will close next Wednesday as workers lay concrete beams for a new $6.3 million bridge at Moggs Creek.
The joint state-federal project will replace the recently-demolished 1950s era bridge, which was nearing the end of its design life, according to Regional Roads Victoria.
The replacement bridge, “currently on track to be completed by the end of winter”, will be stronger and wider than its predecessor, the authority said.
The new single-span bridge will include an ocean-side pedestrian pathway, adjacent pedestrian refuge and cycling lanes “to improve safety and access for all road-users”, according to Regional Roads Victoria.
This February the authority moved traffic onto a temporary single-lane bailey bridge after workers demolished the main structure.
Last April workers removed the adjacent timber pedestrian arch boardwalk, to be reinstated after the completion of the new bridge.
From 7pm next Wednesday to 6am next Thursday VicRoads will direct all traffic inland between Lorne and Bellbrae.
VicRoads advised motorists to travel via a combination of Deans Marsh-Lorne Road, Winchelsea-Deans Marsh Road, Princes Highway, Cape Otway Road, Hendy Main Road and Anglesea Road.
“Drivers should plan ahead and allow an extra 20 minutes for the detour,” VicRoads said.
“We appreciate your co-operation and understanding, while we continue to upgrade the Great Ocean Road for everyone.”
Local access will be maintained for residents around Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven and the eastern side of Moggs Creek.
Residents can also expect some noise and floodlighting at Moggs Creek while the beams are installed.
“We will continue to work closely with emergency services to ensure safety and local access remain a priority,” VicRoads said.
