Inland Rail work to close Seymour-Avenel Road bridge

The Seymour-Avenel Road bridge over the north-east railway line north of Seymour will close in January for up to 12 months for Inland Rail construction work.

Seymour Avenel Road - after image

To allow the safe running of double-stacked freight trains Inland Rail is replacing the existing bridge with a higher, single span bridge in the same location.

The design includes a 35-metre span bridge, about 3.2 metres higher than the existing structure and incorporates earth embankments sympathetic to the surrounding environment and retaining walls to reduce impact on Avenel Road.

The work site has been established by Inland Rail contractor McConnell Dowell and construction will begin in January.

From Monday 22 January, 2024, drivers wishing to cross the railway line will need to detour via Avenal Road and High Street, Seymour. The detour is expected to be in place for approximately 12 months or until works are safely completed.

ARTC Inland Rail will hold a series of information sessions to share the design, discuss the detours and answer questions from residents, property owners businesses.

Information sessions:

  • Queen Street, Avenel (outside The Daily Dose) Friday 8 December, 12pm-2pm
  • Queen Street, Avenel (outside The Daily Dose) Friday 15 December, 12pm-2pm
  • Station Street, Seymour (outside CBA), Friday 19 January, 11am-2pm
  • Station Street, Seymour (outside CBA), Friday 2 February, 11am-2pm
  • Queen Street, Avenel (outside The Daily Dose) Friday 12 January, 12pm-2pm
  • Avenel Market, Jubilee Park, Sunday 11 February, 9am-1pm

Residents who cannot attend an information session can phone the ARTC Inland Rail on 1800 732 761 or email victoriaprojects@artc.com.au.

Ed Walker, ARTC Victoria and South Australian General Manager Projects said:

“Inland Rail is a nation-building project, supporting jobs and economic opportunities in regional communities and improving Australia’s freight network.

“We acknowledge the Seymour-Avenel Road bridge construction activity will disrupt the local community and we thank them for their patience and understanding as we deliver the project.

“Construction work will start in early 2024 and is expected to be completed in early 2025.”

Map showing Seymour-Avenel Road Bridge detour

Seymour-Avenel Road bridge detour