New Melville Bridge opens in Maitland, delivering safer and more resilient flood-resistant crossing over the Hunter River

After decades of regular flooding, residents in Maitland and the lower Hunter region now have a safer and more reliable route across the Hunter River, following the official opening of the new Melville Ford Bridge.

The $8.2 million project has replaced the former one-lane timber Melville Ford Bridge with a modern two-lane concrete structure connecting Aberglasslyn and Melville. Raised 6.7 metres higher than the previous crossing, the new bridge is designed to reduce flood-related closures and improve access during severe weather events.

The upgraded bridge will benefit local communities by providing safer and more efficient travel for residents, emergency services, school transport, freight operators and farmers. It will also help maintain critical connections between communities during floods and other emergencies. Additional features include dedicated pedestrian access, parking facilities and the removal of weight restrictions, making the crossing safer and more accessible for all users.

Funding for the project was provided through a partnership between the Australian Government, the NSW Government and Maitland City Council. More than $2.5 million was delivered through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements under the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package. The NSW Government also contributed $2.5 million through an election commitment and $1.6 million from the Fixing Country Bridges Program, while Maitland City Council provided a further $1.6 million.

Although the old bridge has been replaced, part of its legacy will remain within the community. Timber salvaged from the former structure has been repurposed into riverside seating, creating a lasting connection to the bridge's history.

Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain said the project demonstrated the benefits of collaboration between all levels of government to deliver safer, more resilient infrastructure for regional communities. She noted that residents in flood-prone areas need reliable transport links, particularly during extreme weather, and described the bridge as a lasting symbol of recovery and resilience for the Maitland community.

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson described the bridge as an important project for Maitland and surrounding communities. She said replacing the old one-lane crossing with a modern two-lane bridge would provide safer and more dependable access across the Hunter River while strengthening community connections during severe weather events.

NSW Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the upgrade was an important investment in the region's future, delivering a safer and more efficient road network for residents, workers and local businesses. She highlighted the positive impact the improvements will have on everyday travel and community connectivity.

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison described the bridge as a significant investment in the long-term safety and resilience of the Maitland community. She said the project fulfilled the government's commitment to improving regional road networks and noted the achievement of completing the bridge despite flood-related damage during construction last year.

NSW Government Spokesperson for the Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal emphasised the importance of maintaining strong connections for regional communities, saying the project will support safer travel and a more resilient future for residents.

Maitland City Council Mayor Philip Penfold said he was proud to see the completion of the new and improved Melville's Milton Morris Bridge. He noted that the higher, stronger and more flood-resilient structure will reduce flood-related disruptions throughout the year. He also thanked residents for their patience during construction and contractor Saunders Civilbuild for getting the project back on track after last year's flooding.