The Lawrence community is one step closer to receiving a new bridge over Sportsmans Creek with tenders called from businesses last week to build the new structure as part of the Bridges for the Bush program, Clarence MP, Chris Gulaptis has announced. Mr Gulaptis said the NSW Government committed to providing a new crossing at Lawrence through the $290 million program to meet future demand from local traffic and the region’s agricultural industries. “The existing bridge is just 5.5 metres wide and restricts oversized traffic to one lane creating a significant pinch point for heavy vehicles,” he said. “A new bridge will be built about 100 metres upstream of the existing structure and will connect Grafton Street and Lawrence Road. “A Review of Environmental Factors was completed in February this year and the detailed design for the new bridge and road approaches has been completed. “Tenders are now being called for major work to build the new bridge so work can get under way in the first half of next year. “The successful business would build the new two lane bridge which will be 175 metres long and include a shared pathway for pedestrian and cyclist access. “About 200 metres of road on the southern approach and 520 metres of the northern approach to the bridge would also be upgraded to connect the bridge to the local network.” Mr Gulaptis said tenders close on Wednesday, 16 December at 2.30pm and businesses are encouraged to find out more by visiting www.etender.nsw.gov.au. For more information on the project visit http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/northern-nsw/sportsmans-creek/.