The old single-lane timber bridge was badly damaged in the April 2015 super storm and was deemed unsafe for traffic.

The new double-lane concrete bridge has an open load limit and a life expectancy of 100 years.

Its opening means Frame Drive will once again provide access to the Hunter Expressway’s Loxford exit.

Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent said Cessnock City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to working with Roads and Maritime Services on road safety issues on surrounding access roads, in particular the Hart Road, Government Road and Gingers Lane intersection.

“This was the route people chose to connect to the expressway,” Cr Pynsent said.

“But RMS is still to contribute to this precinct.

“We will be hounding them until they open their coffers.”

In September 2015 council estimated it will cost $15.3 million to upgrade Gingers Lane, Frame Drive and Orange Street to accommodate the increased traffic demand that has resulted since the expressway opened.

The bridge itself cost $4 million, with a grant from the Federal Government’s Bridges Renewal Program covering half of the funds.

Cr Pynsent said the replacement of the old wooden bridge with a concrete structure would service the community for years to come.

“Our community have been faced with a very difficult situation; their patience and understanding was appreciated as council worked hard to secure a long-term, safe and suitable solution,” he said.

Living on the Cessnock side of the bridge, Frame Drive resident Cath Crole said she is happy it has re-opened as it will be much easier for her to get to work in Maitland.

But she will miss the peace and quiet.

“It was a semi-rural area, and when the bridge was closed it was like a rural area,” she said.

“I just hope people are respectful.”