Kindee Bridge

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Port Macquarie Hastings Council invites the Kindee community, and anyone who regularly uses Kindee Bridge, to a community meeting for an update on the bridge’s current status.
Community meeting details
Thursday 29 January @ 5.30 - 7pm, Kindee Hall

 

Council has implemented a temporary load limit on Kindee Bridge following assessments undertaken after issues were identified during planning for upcoming major maintenance and flood recovery works.

This is a necessary safety measure for the community and road users and will remain in place until rehabilitation works are completed.

Temporary load limit (current conditions)

  • 3.5 tonnes (gross vehicle mass/GVM)
  • One vehicle at a time
  • Single-lane bridge conditions apply

Flood trigger closures

Kindee Bridge will be closed to all vehicles and pedestrians when the Hastings River exceeds 1.7 metres (at the Kindee Bridge gauge).

Flooding at this location can occur quickly, which means closures may be required with little to no notice. Council will monitor weather forecasts, rainfall and river conditions to inform when closures are needed.

The latest river level information is available on the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website.

Updates

Council acknowledges the disruption this may cause and will provide updates as new information becomes available via the project webpage and community notifications.

FAQ's

What happens next?

Council will continue to work closely with specialist contractors to:

  • Fully understand the extent of the structural issues.
  • Progress designs and the works of the required rehabilitations and flood recovery works.

We will keep the community informed as more information becomes available. 

Will the bridge be closed again?

Yes. Bridge closures will be necessary during rehabilitation works. We will keep the community informed when this schedule is in place.

In addition, if the Hastings River exceeds 1.7m on the gauge at the bridge it will be closed to vehicles and pedestrians.

What information is being provided?

Additional signage has been installed, including:

  • Signage at the bridge confirming current access arrangements
  • Notices at key local locations, including the Long Flat Pub and General Store
  • QR codes linking directly to Council’s website for the latest updates and FAQs.

Is there a detour for heavier vehicles or during future closures?

Yes. A detour via Pipeclay Road remains open, and should be used for vehicles over 3.5t or in the event of a closure at Kindee Bridge. Grading of Pipeclay Road is currently ongoing, and Council will continue to monitor its condition. However, as an unsealed road, it can deteriorate quickly after rainfall. We encourage all drivers to travel carefully and drive to conditions at all times.

Residents are encouraged to report any concerns to Customer Service on 6581 8111 so we can respond promptly.

What about school buses and deliveries?

  • Bus operators have been contacted and consulted with about the current arrangements in place.
  • Bus operations are currently unaffected by the 3.5t load limit, so bus services will run as normal.
  • Council will work with Bus operators to plan for future requirements once rehabilitation scope and timeframes are known.

Is Council planning to replace Kindee Bridge?

In 2021 Council explored design options for a potential replacement bridge and engaged with the community, who supported a new structure immediately upstream. However, funding has not been sourced or allocated to progress in the next stages of the project.

Council’s current resolution is to continue planning for the maintenance of the existing bridge.

How can I stay updated?

Council will continue to provide updates through the project webpage, social media, and direct communication with impacted residents, especially if conditions change or further measures are required.

You can also subscribe to receive email updates on key milestones of this project via the subscribe button on this webpage.

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Location

Kindee Road, Kindee 2446  View Map

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