Safe solution for heavy vehicles at Broadwood Road Bridge

An innovative approach from experts working on the Broadwood Road Bridge means traffic of all sizes can now use the span until maintenance work is finished.

Last October, engineers restricted the bridge to vehicles under 26.4 tonnes, after routine inspections identified the need for work on its supporting structure. This mostly prevented trucks carrying goods along the bridge, which is a vital link along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway and sits 8.49km from Mangamuka Road. However, the weight restriction has now been lifted.

A collaborative effort has reduced the bridge’s two lanes to one, redirecting traffic down the centre. This allows traffic of all sizes to safely pass over the strongest part of the structure. While this is in place, a give way system will regulate traffic flow, and maximum speeds will drop from 60kmp/h to 30kmp/h.

This temporary workaround allows businesses to make and receive deliveries in good time until strengthening work is finished without having to rely on longer, less direct routes. Council teams are updating affected businesses as work progresses.