New England Highway (Yarraman - Toowoomba), Back Creek Bridge, upgrade bridge and approaches, design
The Queensland Government is committed to improving safety on the New England Highway at Cooyar.
This vital state strategic road supports high volumes of traffic, including freight, and serves as a critical link for the local community and Southern Queensland's cattle and beef supply chains.
In late 2025, planning was completed for significant upgrades, including replacing the Back Creek Bridge and its approaches, improving safety at key intersections, as well as upgrading facilities for heavy vehicles. Strong community support for upgrading Back Creek Bridge, the last remaining single-lane bridge on the highway, has accelerated the development of this project.
Benefits
- Improves safety
- Improves network efficiency
- Increases traffic flow
- Better road access
- Contributes to economy
- Contributes to regional growth
Key features
- Replace Back Creek Bridge with a new 2-lane bridge, including upgrading approaches.
- Upgrade the New England Highway and Cooyar–Rangemore Road intersection to improve safety and meet the alignment of the new bridge.
- Improve safety at the New England Highway, McDougall and Fergus streets intersection .
- Upgrade heavy vehicles stopping places on the New England Highway in Cooyar.
Funding
The Queensland Government has committed $28.8 million for the design and construction of the bridge replacement through the State Road Network Upgrade Program.
Investment ID: 3742443.
Current status
The designs are expected to be completed in early 2027 to allow construction to commence in mid-2027.
Community consultation
We are actively engaging with the local community, residents, property and business owners about the project, its benefits and potential impacts.
Project map
