VicRoads north western projects director Nigel Powers said the rail bridge, over the Melbourne to Ararat railway line, about one kilometre west of Beaufort, was about 50 years old and needed upgrading to meet current standards.

The upgrade announcement on Tuesday afternoon came just days after a father and daughter from Bulgana were killed just metres from the bridge in their utility vehicle during a head-on collision with a truck.

VicRoads will hold a Community Information Session on December 5 from 3pm to 7pm at Beaufort Community Centre, 72 Neill St Beaufort.

Mr Powers said a drop-in session in Beaufort on December 5 was an opportunity for the community to learn about the project and to ask questions of the project team.

“We want the community to understand what the next steps are on the Beaufort Rail Bridge project before we start work early next year,” Mr Powers said.

“The work will involve strengthening the bridge structure and upgrading the kerb and guardrail to meet current standards.

“The bridge is more than 50 years old and requires upgrade and strengthening works to increase its current capacity for heavy vehicles to improve the productivity along this route.

“We expect the work will take about 12 weeks to complete.”

Mr Powers said that during the works, there would be lane closures, reduced speed limits, traffic management and variable message signs operating.

Drivers should expect significant delays during construction and should plan their journey accordingly.

A contractor for the $2.5 million works will be appointed in early December.

Mr Powers said that some trees might be required to be removed, however engineers were further investigating and would keep the public informed.

VicRoads is working with V/Line to manage the work and does not expect train services to be affected.

The bridge strengthening is separate to Beaufort Bypass planning.