A state-of-the-art temporary bridge will be installed by the Schrinner Council to prevent the residents of one of Brisbane’s most historic pockets being marooned during the construction of a permanent replacement.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said works were underway to install a temporary bridge, which will allow the upgrade of the Gresham Street Bridge in Ashgrove to get underway.

“This bridge was first constructed in 1931 as a two-lane timber bridge, and while there has been regular maintenance throughout its lifespan, the almost century old structure will now receive a complete replacement,” Cr Schrinner said.

“The Schrinner Council is investing in infrastructure in our suburbs and this bridge replacement is about ensuring access for residents of the St John’s Wood community in Ashgrove is maintained for generations to come.

“Without a bridge connection this entire community would be isolated by Enoggera Creek.

“Ths connection is currently used by around 2850 vehicles a day, so it was crucial that while this upgrade was completed, access was maintained for residents.

“The temporary bridge took two weeks to be installed and a crane was used to lift a the 133-tonne steel structure into place, parallel to the existing bridge, and then beams laid across this.

“The temporary structure will be two lanes and have a shared pedestrian and cycle path.

“The construction of the new bridge is due for completion in mid-2022 and the new bridge will have dramatically improved road tonne limit, flood immunity and improved safety for all users.

“This project will support up to 30 jobs at the peak of construction as part of the Schrinner Council’s commitment to continue stimulating local industry and the economy while we navigate our recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.”

Gap Ward Councillor Steve Toomey said he was excited to see the Gresham Street Bridge Project hit the next significant milestone with the delivery of the temporary bridge in six boxes.

“The temporary bridge is a very large Meccano style re-useable bridge that is going to be bolted in place over a two- week period,” Cr Toomey said.

“It’s going to give St John’s Wood access for the duration of the new bridge build and once it is job done, the temporary bridge is unbolted packed up and ship off to its next location.”

“The Schrinner Council is committed to reuse and recycle and the construction methodology for the Gresham Street Bridge aligns with this methodology”

The Gresham Street bridge replacement project is jointly funded by Council and the Australian Government as part of the Bridges Renewal Program, with a $700,000 Federal contribution to the $24.1 million project.

Federal MP for Ryan Julian Simmonds said he had made a commitment to fix local roads so that residents can get home to their families sooner and safer.

“The Gresham Street Bridge upgrade is another example of how, working with the Schrinner Council, we’re getting on with the job,” Mr Simmonds said.

“This upgrade is an essential project that will support jobs and improve road safety in our local area.

“Having contributed the necessary federal funding to kickstart this project, it is great to see construction underway.

“The LNP Morrison Government continues to work in partnership with the LNP Schrinner Council to progress critical infrastructure projects in the Ryan electorate.”