Concerned Fitzroy Valley residents have raised concerns over apparent signs of stress on the new bridge crossing the Martuwarra / Fitzroy River.

In January 2023 the old bridge connecting Fitzroy Crossing to the western Kimberley was destroyed by massive floods, with the Martuwarra reaching as high as the bridge itself and as wide as 50km in parts at the peak of the natural disaster.

The first segment of the new bridge was launched in September last year.

Locals in both Fitzroy Crossing and the neighbouring Valley communities had called for a replacement bridge and alternative routes for vital supply lines for several months.

On Sunday, residents contacted National Indigenous Times to provide photos and video showing what appear to be signs of stress on the new bridge, and expressed their worries about the long-term future of the important structure.

On Tuesday a Main Roads spokesperson told National Indigenous Times that they emphasise that the new Fitzroy River Bridge is "not buckling".

"Main Roads is aware of a minor depression in the road pavement on one of the approaches to the Fitzroy River Bridge. This is the result of settlement following construction of the concrete approach slab and is not uncommon in bridge construction," they said.

"The area has been monitored since the bridge opened in December and we can confirm there is no risk to road users. The depression will be rectified following the wet season.There are no structural concerns with the new Fitzroy River Bridge itself, which continues to function well since opening in December 2023, six months ahead of schedule."

Story updated - 5 March 2024.