Webb Bridge to close for maintenance

Webb Bridge will close for three weeks this month as the City of Melbourne undertakes new water-proofing treatments.

Council is investing $140,000 to complete the works, which weather permitting, will involve the closure of the bridge for around three weeks from Saturday, September 7.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp, who, as Docklands News reported last month, has recently become a Docklands resident herself, said the project included waterproofing 1200 sqm of concrete surface to help protect the bridge from the elements.

“Thousands of people walk and cycle over the Webb Bridge each day and it provides a vital link over the Yarra River,” the Lord Mayor said.

“This maintenance work will put a new protective seal over the concrete to ensure that it is in good condition for decades to come.”

“Enhancing our riverside spaces is a major focus of the City of Melbourne, and we are committed to maintaining infrastructure and public spaces along the Yarra River to our high standards.”

Cyclists will be diverted through Seafarers Bridge and Jim Stynes Bridge, while pedestrians will be encouraged to use the Charles Grimes Bridge while the works take place.

“I know there will be some people inconvenienced by this work but it is necessary and I’d ask everyone to please be patient while the project goes ahead,” the Lord Mayor said.

Chair of the City of Melbourne’s finance and governance portfolio Deputy Lord Mayor Arron Wood said Webb Bridge was built about 15 years ago and the water-proofing works were necessary maintenance.

“We are the fastest growing city in Australia and that does put strain on our infrastructure,” Cr Wood said.

“The City of Melbourne has a rigorous asset management plan to make sure we are doing maintenance at the appropriate times to keep our infrastructure in good condition while minimising disruption wherever possible.

“We have an active community who love to walk, run or ride along our riverside areas and Webb Bridge is arguably our most spectacular bridge.”

“Although it will be out of action for a few weeks, the end result will mean that it remains a key pedestrian and cycle link for our city for many years to come.”