The reopening of the Barton Highway will be delayed by one week until Saturday, September 11, because of unexpected delays in demolishing remaining sections of the collapsed Gungahlin Drive Extension bridge.
The bridge collapsed during a concrete pour on August 14, injuring 15 workers.
Roads ACT had hoped to reopen the highway this weekend after contractors finished demolishing what was left of the bridge and clearing away debris.
But after a meeting with lead contractor Abergeldie and WorkSafe ACT, Roads ACT director Tony Gill said yesterday the job was taking longer than expected.
''Obviously the collapsed bridge on the northern side of the Barton Highway wasn't too difficult to remove,'' Mr Gill said.
''But they've encountered more resistance from the concrete on the southern side.''
WorkSafe ACT yesterday granted the demolition contractors permission to use certain types of equipment, including jack hammers.
''The other issue is, because of the proximity of the existing bridge, the type of equipment has to be very careful to limit any damage to the existing bridge,'' Mr Gill said.
''In terms of manoeuvrability, it has proved difficult and the contractor has decided, to make the progress they need to make, they need to change tack.''
Demolition staff who have been working long shifts since last Thursday will be given the day off on Sunday.
Mr Gill said it was not practical for replacement staff to be brought in because the workers were now familiar with the site.
Email a friend