The restoration works include:
- replacing the weathered bluestone blocks in the pedestrian refuges
- cleaning and consolidating existing bluestone blocks
- resetting bluestone blocks that have shifted out of alignment over time
- conservation works including repairing indents and replacing mortar
- repairing and artisan repainting of the iron facades, including crests, lampposts and the balustrades
- waterproofing the remaining sections of footpath not previously completed
- rewiring the public lighting and removing unnecessary electrical services.
River works
From late March until late May 2024, the river under the southern arch of Princes Bridge was closed and the central arch width reduced while scaffolding was installed ahead of bluestone works.
The scaffolding is now installed and access has been restored to the southern arch, with a reduced width of 12 m and height of 4 m, allowing for use by rowing and hire vessels. The width of the central arch remains slightly reduced to accommodate the scaffolding.
Buoys and signage were installed to guide vessels during the scaffolding installation, and have been adjusted now that the southern arch has been re-opened.
Bluestone works
Bluestone works began late 2023 and will be completed in sections, starting with Section 1Opens in new tab located at the southeastern end of the bridge near Boathouse Drive.
Scaffolding has been installed on the side of the bridge around the work site. Pedestrian and bicycle access under the bridge will be maintained with over half of the underpass width open, except for short periods of time when project activities around crane lifts need to occur.
Pedestrian, vehicle and tram access along the top of the bridge will be maintained with some short-term footpath closures to one side of the bridge. Advanced notice of closures will be provided, and clear traffic management with pedestrian crossings for safe access will be in place.
Roadway works
In late 2022 and early 2023 we undertook works on the Princes Bridge roadway. Works included installing a waterproofing membrane to the bridge structure surface and then renewing the road asphalt, installing bicycle lane separator kerb and general repairs.
Works are now complete and full access has been restored to Princes Bridge.
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Princes Bridge's bluestones have undergone small-scale repairs over its 135-year lifetime. Now, due to age, general wear and alignment needs, City of Melbourne needs to complete repairs and restoration to ensure the bridge can continue to support Melbourne into the future.
These restoration works will bring the bridge stonework up to similar condition of when it was first constructed and will be treated so it provides long-term protection.
Stone from the same lava flow will be selected to ensure consistency of appearance. When the stone is newly replaced there may be a visual difference with the old adjacent stone, but this will darken over time.
By restoring the stonework, we can ensure this much-loved heritage landmark endures for centuries to come.
Bluestone restoration works will be completed in sections along the bridge with the first section located at the southeastern end of the bridge, near the end of Boathouse Drive.
As part of our program of works, you will notice a workers site along Boathouse Drive, as well as scaffolding and construction hoardings as we work along the bridge. Hoardings will remain up in sections along the bridge as works progress.
The community will be notified ahead of major disruptions and traffic management will be in place to support movement around the work area.
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Pedestrian and bicycle access under the bridge between Boathouse Drive and Southbank Promenade will be maintained, except for times when short-term activities need to occur.
Pedestrian, cycle, vehicle and tram access along the top of the bridge will be maintained, with short-term restrictions to footpaths during major works.
When access needs to be restricted, advance notice and clear traffic management will be provided.
Bluestone restoration works will be completed in sections along the bridge with the first section located at the southeastern end of the bridge, near the end of Boathouse Drive. Works on this first section began in late 2023 and will be completed by mid to late 2024.
The full restoration project will take three years to complete and will conclude in 2026.
