Motorists and transport operators in the Armidale region are now enjoying safer journeys and more cost-effective freight options following completion of the Abington Creek Bridge – with 12 more to be upgraded across the New England.

Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the Boorolong Road project provided vital new road infrastructure and would also provide lasting benefits for primary producers in the region.  

“Better bridges like this one at Abington are not only helping to keep us safe on the road but also are also driving our economy and expanding local industry across the New England,” Mr Joyce said.

“With regional road links that are safer, more reliable and more efficient, we’re helping to cut stock and produce transport costs and provide a better return through the farm gate.”

Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals’ Leader and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Liberals and Nationals in Government are committing $640 million for vital bridgeworks between 2015–16 to 2022–23, with an ongoing commitment of $85 million each year following.

“The Bridges Renewal Program provides up to 50 per cent of the cost of repairing or replacing old and unsafe local bridges, which is a fantastic win for local communities,” Mr McCormack said.

Abington Creek Bridge received $52,405 in federal funding under Round 3 of the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program. Total project cost was $363,596.

The Federal Government recently announced a further $653,000 in funding to upgrade two more bridges in the Armidale region – the Pint Pot Bridge and Dumaresq Creek Bridge - which are among 12 new bridges to be upgraded across the New England Electorate under Round 4 of the Bridges Renewal Program.

(ENDS)