A new design is underway for the aging Little Valley Bridge over the Manuherikia River, connecting Alexandra township with Tucker Hill.

At last week's meeting the Central Otago District Council heard about the planned upgrade by the infrastructure and roading team responsible for the renewal of the bridge’s timber deck and beams.

Traffic would have to use an alternative route while the new upgrade took place with further planning underway for the location of a temporary Bailey bridge. 

Councillors were told by staff there were two options for an alternative bridge - one via Tucker Hill Rd and the other across Linger and Die area - connecting with Graveyard Gully from River St.

But there were challenges with the river flows and there would also need to be further consultation with both Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) and Contact Energy.

Tucker Hill Rd also had its complications, and the capex report said construction of an alternative route included widening and upgrading the existing track and building a temporary structure across the Lower Manorburn.

When a decision was made, affected residents and landowners would be informed.

Roading manager Paul Fleet said council staff had been engaging directly with affected farmers to address the interim restriction and its potential effects on farming operations.

“Once we have clarity on both, we’ll be able to effectively engage with the affected community. We’ll have more information to share soon,” he said.

Originally scheduled for completion by June 2025, the bridge project timeline had been adjusted due to complexities around design, material sourcing, and to determine the alternative route.

“Construction is now expected to take place during the summer of 2025/26 to avoid the challenges of winter construction and the risks associated with the potential use of an unsealed alternative route.”

To ensure the safety of the current structure while planning continues, a 29-tonne weight limit and a 10 km/h speed limit for heavy vehicles is being introduced.

This restriction will remain in place until the renewal work is completed.

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