SOUTHERN Downs residents are the beneficiaries of two new replacement bridges, with more to come.

Works on the bridges was completed last week at an estimated cost of about $1.2 million.

The former bridges were single span, single lane timber bridges and structural condition surveys had identified that both bridges were no longer suitable for traffic.

The old Bellinghams Road Bridge, which crosses the Condamine River on Bellinghams Road in Elbow Valley, operated under a load restriction of 5 tonne, and the former timber Mullins Road Bridge, which crosses Campbell Gully on Mullins Road (Womina), had been closed to traffic, with a road operating through a side track adjacent to the bridge.

Construction is continuing on the Sandy Creek Road and Tummaville Road bridge upgrades, and both projects are expected to be completed later this month.

Last year Council was successful in its bid for funding from the Queensland Government's 'Royalties for Regions' program, receiving $2.64 million, on a 75:25 basis for four bridge replacement projects with a total estimated cost of $3.52 million.

Southern Downs Regional Council's Mayor, Cr Tracy Dobie was very pleased to see these projects finalised.

"Council has a number of old timber bridges within our road network and staff have worked hard to prepare submissions for funding of new bridges or bridge repairs," Cr Dobie said.

"For the residents and surrounding communities in the vicinity, these new concrete bridges will make a huge difference to people's daily lives.

"Both bridges are important transport links for not only residents, but farmers and producers, and local businesses.

"The upgrades will improve both the road network and safety of road users, and allow better access to these communities for emergency services."