Bridge plan seeks new approval

Work on the new $750 million Bribie Island Bridge is expected to start in 2028 as the project’s approval process takes another step forward.

It has now gone for federal EPBC (Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation) approval, which is part of all major project planning.

The EPBC referral outlines the proposed scope of works and the environmental management measures proposed to minimise impact.

Through the EPBC process, the Australian Government will determine if further assessment and approval is needed.

While this is ongoing, the State Government is continuing technical investigations and environmental studies for the design and approvals process.

Early works are currently scheduled to start in two years, subject to planning, design, environmental and funding processes.

The new bridge will provide two additional lanes going onto Bribie Island with the existing bridge, built in 1963, to be repurposed as two lanes leaving Bribie.

There would also be a dedicated active transport path for bike riders, pedestrians and those with mobility devices on the new east-bound bridge.

The project’s business plan says in 2023 it was estimated around 27,200 vehicles a day used the existing bridge.

It also highlighted issues with crashes on the narrow bridge, which cause lengthy delays and the narrow footpath currently in use.