The Luggate Red Bridge, on SH8A near Wānaka, will be closed on Wednesday morning (July 13) between 9am and 1pm.

Aspiring Highways, contracted to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, has some urgent work to do at one bridge abutment, the agency said.

Anyone using SH8A will need to take the detour route or travel around the 9am to 1pm closure time, Waka Kotahi Central Otago maintenance contract manager Peter Standring said.

The bridge was closed for two days last week for scaffolding/staging to be installed to enable access to the bridge’s structure, ready for upcoming repairs.

While installing the scaffolding, Aspiring Highways’ crew spotted the need for some urgent work, hence this closure during the school holidays.

“This stage of work was foreseen at the outset of this project, but the extent of the damage found has required it to be carried out sooner than originally programmed,” Peter said.

“We are doing our best to minimise the time it will take and aim to stick to our overall programme after this work is completed,” he said. 

“Thanks to all drivers for taking care on the detour route, or working their journeys around it.”

The detour for cars is via Kane Road, Camphill Road and SH6. This detour will add approximately 15 minutes to your journey time. 50MAX drivers can travel via Kane Road, Domain Road, Cemetery Road and Capell Avenue. HPMV drivers will need to travel outside of these times.

PHOTO: Wānaka App