The latest Freo traffic bridge redesigns have been revealed
An enhanced design for the replacement of Fremantle’s aging traffic bridge has been revealed today, developed in response to community feedback to the designs released in August 2022.
The original design was criticised for issues including its lack of flair, eliminating neighbouring green space, deviating traffic along Beach Street and relocation of the iconic “Containbow” sculpture. The existing, 84 year old timber bridge’s replacement is necessitated by high levels of corrosion and rot.
The new design maintains existing road layout, with wider paths to support walking and cycling, minimised impact on existing limestone escarpment and improves navigational safety for boats and other river users. As well as this, the bridge will be Australia’s only extradosed bridge, incorporating both cantilevers and cable support and creating a much more impactful entry statement to Fremantle.
Because the new bridge will be built on the existing traffic bridge alignment, the existing bridge will need to be closed for up to 12 months – however this is not expected to happen until late 2025 at the earliest.
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“We have known for some time that the Fremantle Traffic Bridge needs replacing, and in building a new bridge we have the opportunity to create a unique entry statement for visitors to our beautiful city,” said Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk.
“Getting the design right is vital, and being such a large project with site constraints, this can be challenging, so I thank Fremantle locals for their patience.”
“I’m pleased we have landed on a design that I believe addresses both the aesthetic and practical wishes of the community.”
“The new design will also improve access for foot and bike traffic, something I know locals are passionate about.”
The redesign has been submitted for Development Approval. If you’d like to have your say about the Fremantle Traffic Bridge project, you’ll be able to do so via the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage’s Citizen Space Consultation Hub.