Construction of the bridge on SH25A that will reconnect the Coromandel peninsula is set to get underway over the next fortnight.

A preferred tender has been selected by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, a joint venture between McConnell Dowell and Fulton Hogan, supported by Beca and Tonkin and Taylor.

“The Government is committed to reconnecting Coromandel communities quickly, and this plan to repair the damage along the highway gives us the confidence we can do that,” said Associate Transport Minister Kiri Allan.

“Their methodology is to build a simple bridge, using off the shelf designs, that can be partly fabricated off-site. This safe and efficient construction approach means the road will reopen sooner than otherwise might be possible.”

The design is for a 110m three-span composite bridge with a concrete sub-structure, steel superstructure, and pre-cast concrete deck.

“It’s simple and quick to build and utilises readily available materials, removing an otherwise lengthy delay to get construction materials into the country,” Allan said.

The final cost and exact timeframe are still being worked through, while design work and site establishment can progress imminently.

Work will get underway on the ground within the next fortnight. The first job will be to establish site offices and build all weather access tracks for the machinery required. The project team has access to a vast in-house equipment fleet including a variety of cranes, which also ensures they can fast track the process.

“We appreciate how vital it is to reconnect this lifeline. The storm damage to the Coromandel roading network is having a massive impact on travel time, cost and quality of life for the people who live, work and visit this beautiful region,” Allan said.

“This announcement gives everyone a sure path forward.”