In relation to the funding for the strengthening of bridges on the Barton Highway over Ginninderra Creek.

(1) Do the bridges require strengthening.

(2) Has the Commonwealth Government allocated funding to perform any required remedial works on strengthening the bridges when it duplicates the remaining section of the Barton Highway; and

(3) What is the estimated cost of any remedial works.

(1) The twin bridges over Ginninderra Creek were strengthened to T54 Design Vehicle (axle loading) in May 2000 at a cost of $214,518.50 (plus GST). The Commonwealth funded the work. However in December 2000, subsequent to the completion of this work, the National Road Transport Commission recommended a new standard to allow heavier axle loads. This new standard has been included in the draft Australian Standard for Bridge Design. The Barton Highway bridges will therefore require further strengthening to meet the new standard. It is expected that the work will be funded by the Commonwealth. This issue however has not yet been discussed with the Department of Transport and Regional Services.

(2) No, the Commonwealth has not specifically allocated funds for further upgrading of the subject bridges as part of the Barton Highway duplication project. The section of the highway to be duplicated does not include the bridges over Ginninderra Creek.

(3) Engineering investigation and analysis will be required some time in the future to determine the extent and cost of the additional strengthening work to satisfy the new standard. The timing of this work will depend on the timing of strengthening of other bridges on the Barton Highway within New South Wales. It is anticipated that the cost would be in the order of $300,000-$400,000.