In the coming months Melbourne Water will begin work on a new pipe bridge across the Maribyrnong River that as well as providing a new sewer network connection for Melbourne’s north-western suburbs will also deliver a great new connection for our network of bike trails.
As well as the 80 metre bridge, the project provides 300 metres of new trail along the River at the Medway Golf Club that will use the local network to connect into Highpoint.
The new bridge will sit above a 1.2m pipe and will be a significantly sized job taking an estimated 8 months to complete.
During that time the construction activity will require the Maribyrnong River Trail to be closed at Avondale Heights.
This will be a major constraint for riders and walkers who regularly use the trail.
Final planning on potential detour detours in underway but because of the physical features of the valley there will be hills to climb in all directions.
Heading outbound the trail in the northern bank will be closed at the Canning Reserve to allow contractors access along the gravel trail to the bridge site.
Inbound the trail will will likely be diverted to the entrance on Barbara Crescent.
Full details regarding the detours, and other route options, will be provided closer to the start of works.
As part of this project, Melbourne Water is working closely with Moonee Valley and Maribyrnong City Councils to deliver long-term benefits for the Maribyrnong River and the community.
Benefits will include opening an inaccessible section of land on the southern side of the Maribyrnong River and a new shared path for the community to enjoy continuous views and access along the river.
Weeds will be removed throughout the reserve and native grasses, trees and shrubs will be planted in their place.
The new pipe bridge will be built over the Maribyrnong River for use by pedestrians, bike riders, wheelchairs and prams.
The pipe bridge will link trails on both sides of the river enabling a ridable connection between Avondale Heights to the north and Braybrook and Maidstone to the south.
The new pipe bridge will be located about 200 metres east of an existing water main pipe crossing. That crossing is narrow and difficult for riders to access.
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