THE shared path across the old Fremantle Traffic Bridge will be permanently closed from January.

Cyclists and pedestrians will then have to detour across Stirling Bridge to get in and out of the port city, a taste of what all traffic will face as the bridge replacement heads into its next phase.

• Construction is well underway on Fremantle’s extradosed traffic bridge.

The path had already been temporarily closed during daylight hours from Monday to Saturday, with Main Roads saying works to drive new piles into the river’s bed were too loud to allow pedestrians and cyclists in the area.

The permanent closure is to allow the construction of abutment foundations and retaining walls to support the deck of the new extradosed bridge.

“In recent months, four temporary jetties have been constructed on the northern and southern sides of the bridge,” Main Roads said in an update.

“These jetties, which are likely to be completed by the end of the year, will support the cranes for the duration of the construction period. 

“Meanwhile, relocation of extensive electricity, gas and water services under the river are approaching completion.”