Our Work at the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Our work at the Sydney Harbour Bridge has spanned decades.

Sydney’s iconic landmark, the Harbour Bridge is considered the world’s greatest arch bridge and was listed on the National Heritage List in 2007.

Known colloquially as “The Coathanger” or “The Iron Lung”, the steel arch bridge opened on 19 March 1932 having taken eight years to build. It connected Sydney’s northern and southern shores, at Milsons Point and Dawes Point, with vehicular, train and tram traffic for the first time. This ambitious project was directed by Dr John J C Bradfield of the New South Wales Department of Public Works, with designs and construction by British firm Dorman Long.

For decades, GML Heritage has been privileged to work on this defining piece of Sydney infrastructure.

  • We authored the Sydney Harbour Bridge’s first Conservation Management Plan (CMP) in 2007 and updated it over ensuing years. GML has recently finalised the latest update to the CMP.
  • GML has also provided advice and assessment on a range of projects including upgrades, maintenance, adaption, interpretation (Ennis Road Bays) and access improvements.
  • In addition to being the heritage advisors to Transport for NSW (and its predecessors; Roads and Maritime Services and the Roads and Traffic Authority), GML is also collaborating with the new SHB Concessionaire, BridgeClimb Sydney, on experiential tourism opportunities.

The Bridge was an ambitious and aspirational project that has stood the test of time. We look forward to contributing to the care of the Sydney Harbour Bridge into the future.