Physical work will soon begin on construction of the new Kopu Bridge.
The Kopu Bridge replacement project involves not only the bridge, but also 2.5 kilometres of new approach roads, including a new link road to State Highway 26 east of the bridge and a new four-leg roundabout at the junction of SH25 and SH26.
Since construction was officially launched in July 2009, good progress has been made.
Wick drains have been installed, ditches have been cleared and silt controls have been installed in preparation for earth works.
Construction workers have started building a platform from the western bank of the Waihou River out towards the existing swing span.




Temporary stop banks have been constructed and the piling work for the platform is now underway on the river side of the stop banks.
Piling for the bridge is expected to start in December and will continue for approximately eighteen months.
At the same time, on the eastern bank, work is proceeding on a roundabout to give construction vehicles access to the project site, taking them off the state highway and minimising disruption to motorists.
The project team has been installing complex monitoring equipment in preparation for construction.
The equipment will ensure the swampy ground can handle the weight of the new embankment.
This is very important because the ground near the river is very soft and will need time to settle as the project progresses through different stages.
Work is also continuing on determining the best option for the junction of State Highway 26 to Paeroa and State Highway 25a to Tairua/Whitianga.
The new Kopu Bridge remains on track to be completed by mid 2012.