The new Brunners Bridge is now open, representing a major upgrade to connections throughout Mitchells Flat, in the Upper Hunter region of New South Wales.

The new Brunners Bridge replaces what was an ageing bridge with a modern, heavy-duty crossing designed to carry larger freight vehicles and better connect local communities.

The upgrade involved full demolition of the old structure and construction of a new bridge, culvert and approaches. Wider lanes and an improved road surface allow heavier vehicles to cross safely, reducing pressure on surrounding local roads and improving safety for all road users.

For communities in the Upper Hunter, Brunners Bridge is a vital connection linking Singleton, Elderslie and Gresford and providing access to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange.

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The $7.2 million bridge, which provides a heavier load limit of 68.5 tonnes, also connects the community to work, schools and other essential local services.

This is one of a number of bridge upgrades that have been delivered in conjunction with Singleton Council, with the Kilfoyles Bridge in Singleton having also been constructed in response to the 2022 floods.

Singleton Mayor Sue Moore said the project was a “testament to the power of collaboration across all levels of government.”

“Gresford Road, where Brunners Bridge crosses Glendon Brook, is an essential freight corridor for the region’s agricultural producers, linking them to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange and beyond,” Moore said.

The project was supported by the Federal and New South Wales governments, in partnership with Singelton Council.