Roads and Maritime Services has announced temporary closures on McFarlane Bridge in Maclean will continue on Thursday of this week in order for essential maintenance work to be carried out to improve safety for road users. “The temporary bridge closures resumed on Tuesday 8 March and are scheduled to continue on Thursday 10 March from 9.30am to 2.30pm, weather permitting to allow the bridge tower to be re-installed as part of the next phase of improvements,” a Roads and Maritime spokesperson said. “Further closures are planned and will be confirmed and advertised closer to their proposed dates, with no more than two in any given week none within the school holiday period. “This essential maintenance is required to ensure the bridge remains a safe crossing for motorists.” In October last year, the tower was successfully transported by vehicular ferry to a dry dock at Ashby where it has been dismantled, stripped and repainted. “Removal of the tower prior to carrying out the remaining maintenance work has enabled the team to minimise further traffic disruption to motorists,” a Roads and Maritime spokesperson said. “The next stage of work includes strengthening to the lift span and pier and will be completed over the coming months. “Electronic message signs are in place either side of McFarlane Bridge, on the approaches to Lawrence Bluff Point ferry crossing and at Brushgrove to alert motorists of the temporary bridge closures, and ongoing 15 mins delays.” Roads and Maritime thanks the community for its patience while these important works are carried out. Community members can register for SMS alerts about the work by either calling 02 6640 1300 or emailing grafton.regional.office@rms.nsw.gov.au