A TEMPORARY 42.5 tonne vehicle mass limit will be put in place on the San Remo/Phillip Island Bridge from July 1, 2024 until late September 2024 as part of Westernport Water’s Pipeline Bracket Renewal project.
The project will refurbish the main drinking water and sewage infrastructure connected to the underside of the bridge.
According to Stuart Storr of Storr Transport Pty Ltd, the Island’s farmers will be able to cope with a short-term load limit.
“There’s already a limit on the bridge but with a 42.5 tonne limit, you wouldn’t be able to go across with a B-double stock transport (weight up to 68 tonne), or a double decker (weight up to 45 tonne),” said Stuart Storr.
“A normal semi (with cattle 32 tonne) will be OK but in the longer term, they’ll still need to be able to get B-doubles across there for the farmers.”
Westernport Water explained the process.
Scaffolding needs to be suspended under the bridge so workers can safely access the pipes while minimising impacts to traffic and pedestrians.
The 42.5 tonne vehicle mass limit is needed while the scaffolding is installed for the three central spans of the bridge.
Vehicles weighing 42.5 tonne or below will be able to access the bridge as normal. Trucks that are used to supply groceries, household goods, petrol, and events at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will not be affected as they typically carry loads of 42.5 tonnes or below.
Mass limits also apply for certain heavy vehicle types outside the 1 July to late September period, until December 2024.
Heavy vehicle operators are advised to visit Westernport Water’s website or the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s National Network Map for up-to-date information on network access and mass limits before they commence their journey.
Managing Director Westernport Water, Dona Tantirimudalige, all efforts had been made to limit the impact of the change.
“To lessen impacts to the local economy, the mass limit of 42.5 tonnes will be in place over winter when construction projects typically ease,” Ms Tantirimudalige said.
“The freight industry has been provided with sufficient forward notice of the temporary mass limit reduction, allowing them time to plan ahead and adjust their operations accordingly.”
Executive Director Gippsland and Capital Delivery, Department of Transport and Planning, Beth Liley, said safety was the key.
“Mass limits are necessary to protect the structural integrity of the bridge, ensuring the safety of all road users and contractors,” Ms Liley said.
“The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator are responsible for compliance of the heavy vehicle mass limits and will monitor compliance as part of their everyday compliance activities when working in this area.”
