The final assessment is being done for the award of a contract for the replacement of the Craigmill Bridge in Portland.

The assessment is being undertaken by the Public Investment Appraisal Branch, for the project estimated to cost over $100 million.

The Craigmill Bridge along the Buff Bay to Whitehall main road collapsed on Saturday night.

The National Works Agency (NWA) says the bridge, which was closed in 2018 gave way under the weight of a truck transporting stones.

Transport Minister and Member of Parliament for West Portland Daryl Vaz is hopeful that with persistent advocacy the bridge will be replaced next year.

Meantime, the NWA says physical barriers were placed at the location and a detour created. However the barriers have been routinely removed by residents.

One resident says with the collapse of the bridge, he expects repairs will take place soon.