The Government of Western Australia has published a new design for the proposed Swan River crossing in Perth after the previous proposal was rejected by the community (link opens in new tab).
The new Fremantle Traffic bridge will combine cantilevers and cable support, making it Australia’s first extradosed bridge. It replaces a timber structure put up as a temporary measure in the late 1930s.
A previous design met with public disapproval because it involved changes to road layouts which would require the removal of an art installation titled Containbow.
Enhanced design for the proposed Fremantle Bridge. Credit: Government of Western Australia
The new bridge will be built on the same footprint as the old bridge and the crossing will be closed for a year during construction, probably in 2025. It includes paths on either side for walkers and cyclists, as well as improved access for these users.
A rail bridge component to the Fremantle Bridge has been deferred.
The project is being conducted by the Fremantle Bridges Alliance, which consists of Main Roads Western Australia, Laing O’Rourke Australia Construction, Arup Australia and WSP Australia.
