Temporary solution for Makarika No. 2

Steel beams have been installed under the Makarika No.2 Bridge across the Mata River, as a temporary fix to shore up the damaged bridge pier. Plans are under way for a long-term solution but at least one month of fine weather will be needed so it is likely to be a summer job. Picture supplied

Contractors Currie Construction have installed a temporary fix by placing steel beams under the damaged bridge pier on the Makarika Bridge No.2, over the Mata River on the East Coast.

They have been working under challenging conditions.

“This temporary fix allows access to light vehicles up to three tonnes,” the Gisborne District Council said in a statement.

No heavy trucks are allowed on the bridge until the long-term fix is finished.

A vehicle height restriction frame has been installed to guide users on what is able to pass over the bridge.

“The long-term plan for the fix is to construct a concrete jacket around the pier,” the council said.

“It’s been designed but we need at least one month of fine weather or low flows, so it’s looking like a summer job.”