Millbridge/Treendale bridge one step closer

The highly-anticipated bridge connecting Millbridge and Treendale is a step closer to reality with the first turning of sod this morning.

During his first visit to Bunbury holding the transport portfolio, Minister Bill Marmion boasted that the 224m long bridge would provide a number of benefits to the community.

The project, worth about $26 million, is expected to be completed by early next year.

Mr Marmion said the traffic bridge would provide a much-needed connection between suburbs in the shires of Dardanup and Harvey.

“This will be a 224 metre-long, 14.4 metre-wide, six-span steel and concrete composite bridge, including a pedestrian walkway and two possum rope structures,” Mr Marmion said.

“Construction is also expected to generate employment for up to 100 people — that’s good news for West Australians.

“Reducing traffic pressure on the Forrest Highway and Old Coast Road will improve safety and provide faster access for emergency services vehicles in those communities.

“Once complete, this bridge will halve the travel distance between the two commercial precincts of the shires of Dardanup and Harvey.”

Dardanup shire president Mick Bennett and Harvey shire president Tania Jackson praised the start of construction this morning.