Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes announced today that VicRoads have started maintenance and repair work on the Benalla Monash Bridge, on the Midland Highway.

The bridge traverses Lake Benalla, which is being drained by Benalla Rural City Council in an attempt to help control the noxious Cabomba weed.

“VicRoads will take advantage of the lake being drained by repairing sections of the road bridge that are otherwise difficult to reach - such as under the bridge decks and abutments,” Dr Sykes said.

Crews will repair eroded and cracked concrete sections. General maintenance, such as joint repairs, will be undertaken at the same time.

“This type of maintenance work can only be performed if the lake is empty and crews are able to evaluate the impact of water flow on the bridge structures,” he said.

Sediment and rocks will be removed from around the bridge abutments to maintain the integrity of the structure.

Heavy rock beaching will be installed in the river bed to minimise scouring of the bridge, caused by fast-flowing water.

“VicRoads’ quality control together with regular maintenance and inspection will ensure the bridge is kept strong and functional,” Dr Sykes concluded.

The works are scheduled to be completed by 9 March, weather permitting.

There will be no impact on the traffic flow during the repair works.