New South Wales
Location: MenangleBridge, Menangle, Nepean River
Threat: Deterioration and destruction

Significance of Place
This bridge is the oldest railway underbridge still in use in NSW. It was designed by the Chief Engineer of the NSW Railways, Mr J Whitton, and his work was checked by well-known engineer, Mr John Fowler of England (the brother-in-law of J Whitton).

It was built as a series of three 48.7m double box girders with connecting transoms underneath, on which the double-line railway track was supported. The iron girders were built in Birkenhead , UK and arrived in NSW in April 1862. T he railway over the bridge was opened on 1st July, 1863.

The bridge is one of two of this type built in NSW (the other being over the Nepean River at Penrith now used by road traffic). It is a significant reminder of a typical railway girder bridge of the 1860s, and has some similarity with the former Britannia bridge of the Menai Straits in the UK (since demolished). The length of the spans was reduced by half in 1907 by constructing intermediate piers to increase its carrying capacity and reduce fatigue.

Description of Threat
In March, 2003, the bridge was closed to all traffic following a report on its condition from a consultant. In the following weeks, its replacement became a political issue aired regularly in the media. It is one of 13 extant iron girder bridges in NSW which are scheduled for replacement as funds are available. Being on the main southern railway line, and subjected to considerable recent publicity, its replacement appears imminent.

It is likely that in replacing this bridge, any new structure would take the railway on a less curved approach to the river crossing to also ease the approach to the gradient south of Menangle.

Therefore, while a new bridge would replace this structure, it would not necessarily mean its demolition. Nevertheless, its replacement is seen as a threat to its long-term existence.

Action Required
Preservation and heritage listing of the bridge (in use or preserved), with continued maintenance and restoration, and possible reinstatement of a pair of ornamental piers at the northern end (clearly visible from the road underneath) demolished by a railway derailment some years ago. Pedestrian use should be encouraged so that its structure and design can be seen.