It's a beloved fixture of Melbourne – whether you're a local or tourist, there's a high chance that you've walked across this historic bridge many times. Princes Bridge is a gateway from the CBD to many of Melbourne's most popular attractions: the Royal Botanic Gardens, Arts Centre Melbourne and the Shrine of Remembrance. So it's only right that this important bridge gets some TLC as a thank you for its service.
Built all the way back in 1888 (!!) the Princes Bridge was designed to accommodate Melbourne's booming population after people flocked to live here following the gold rush. It replaced what was the first official bridge built to cross the Yarra river in the city – this was back when St Kilda Road was a dirt track, if you can imagine that. Since then, it's been largely untouched and received minimal repairs, apart from some reinforcement and painting works. But now, it's finally getting a major facelift.
As one of the oldest river crossings in Melbourne, this historic landmark deserves to be preserved. The City of Melbourne is carrying out restoration works on the bridge to enhance its distinctive features, mainly its bluestone blocks. Works will include replacing the old, weathered bluestone blocks in the pedestrian platforms, cleaning and resetting them, and conservation works like repairing dents and replacing mortar. The bridge will also undergo artisan repainting of the iron facade and waterproofing of the footpath. Basically, it's getting a real spruce up.
It may get pretty congested when crowds of tourists pose for photos, but you have to admit, it does have a lovely vantage point. Thankfully, there's no plans to close the bridge during the restoration work, which will be carried out over the next three years. Here's to another 135 years – and hopefully longer – of our fave bridge (literally) supporting Melburnians.