​Little Valley Bridge renewal update:

The community will be hearing more about a planned upgrade of the Little Valley Bridge in Alexandra in the near future.

At the meeting today (Wednesday 29 January 2025) the Central Otago District Council (CODC) Infrastructure team provided an update on the project, which will involve the planned renewal of the bridge’s timber deck and beams.

To ensure the safety of the current structure while planning continues, a 29-tonne weight limit and a 10 km/h speed limit for heavy vehicles is being introduced. This restriction will remain in place until the renewal work is completed. Council staff had been engaging directly with affected farmers to address the interim restriction and its potential effects on farming operations, CODC Roading Manager Paul Fleet said.

Originally scheduled for completion by June 2025, the bridge project timeline has been adjusted due to complexities around design, material sourcing, and the need to establish a temporary alternative route, he said.

“Construction is now expected to take place during the summer of 2025/26 to avoid the challenges of winter construction and the risks associated with the potential use of an unsealed alternative route.”

As the bridge will need to be closed during construction, planning is underway to establish a temporary route that ensures continued access to properties while minimising disruption to residents and farming operations.

CODC Infrastructure Manager Quinton Penniall said the team was currently finalising the alternative route options and awaiting the design and construction details.

“Once we have clarity on both, we’ll be able to effectively engage with the affected community. We’ll have more information to share soon.”