Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum has welcomed the start of repair work on the Redbank Plains Road bridge over the Cunningham Highway at Blackstone.

The bridge was struck by a heavy vehicle carrying an excavator in March and has since been partially closed for safety reasons.

"The detailed structural assessment has confirmed the internal damage is quite severe,” Mr McCallum said.

“I’m really pleased to see work underway after the initial investigations, engineering work and detailed repair designs.

“Stage one work starts today, with damaged concrete and steel to be replaced and cracks filled with epoxy injections.

“Transport and Main Roads expects to complete stage one repairs in about six weeks.

“It will be great to see two-way traffic safely return to the bridge when stage one work is safely completed.

“The second stage of work will involve building new steel cross girders, bracing the bridge girders, to minimise damage in the event of a future strike.

“There will be traffic control and some temporary closures on the Cunningham Highway and Redbank Plains Road to ensure work can be completed safely, and the majority will be undertaken at night to minimise disruption.

“Safety remains the first priority as repair works are carried out in stages to ensure we keep our motorists safe.”

Mr McCallum thanked the local community for its patience and understanding during the investigation and repair process.

“Our local motorists have been severely disrupted – it’s an unfortunate reminder that one act of careless driving can have a massive impact on so many people,” he said.

“It’s taxpayers who have to foot the bill, and I hope the costs associated with the various stages of the repairs can be fully recovered.”

For up-to-date information on road closures and traffic conditions, visit the QLD Traffic website, phone 13 19 40 or email.