Shire of Chapman Valley council approve land transfer for Main Roads’ Buller River bridge replacement

The Shire of Chapman Valley will transfer land to Main Roads to facilitate the much-needed replacement and widening of the Buller River bridge later this year. The bridge was built 81 years ago and does not meet the demands of heavy vehicles. A new concrete bridge to accommodate heavy vehicles and boost road safety is planned to be built. The shire will transfer 1693sqm of land to the North West Coastal Highway road reserve at no cost. Main Roads contractors will be permitted to begin work on the site before the formal land transfer is complete. The project is set to start in the second half of 2024. It is seen as a stepping stone towards the shire’s long-term vision of improved access and recreational opportunities along the Buller River. Future plans include creating a walking trail connecting the Moresby Range Conservation Park to the Buller River mouth, enhancing community and visitor engagement with the area’s natural and cultural heritage. The council approved the land transfer at its May meeting.