From Monday 13 October, Bridge Street between Trafalgar and Collingwood Streets will be closed to vehicles 24/7 while preparatory works for the Bridge to Better project get underway.

The work involves inspecting the historic brick-lined sewer pipe that runs beneath the centre of Bridge Street and installing new manholes to make it easier to access and maintain the pipe later in the project. These manholes will also allow a protective liner to be fitted so the pipe can be used for stormwater. At the same time, crews will be installing a new underground power cable and carefully removing the heritage kerbstones for reuse when the street is rebuilt.

Pedestrian access will remain open on both sides of the street, with clear signage to help everyone reach the shops, cafes and businesses along the block. All businesses will remain open throughout the work, and we encourage everyone to keep supporting them while the team gets this essential work done.

The road needs to stay closed during this work because of the machinery required on site, including diggers, trucks, concrete cutters and a Hydrovac unit. Work will take place 7am–6pm, Monday to Friday, with some weekend work as required. The closure is expected to remain in place until 12 December 2025, though work may finish sooner if conditions allow.

This early stage of construction is an important step towards preparing the street for the main upgrade, starting in February 2026.