Works begin on Derwent Valley Bridge projects

Work will begin on improving three bridges on key transport routes in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley this week.



Bridge crossings on the Styx River will be replaced and the crossing on Gordon River Road will be strengthened to improve the level of service for heavy vehicle freight and community access.



The Australian and Tasmanian governments, and Hydro Tasmania, have allocated a combined $13 million to the projects, which are expected to be finished by April 2025.



The Australian Government has committed $5 million under the Bridges Renewal Program.



Preparation works began on all three bridges from Wednesday, 7 February 2024, before construction started on Tuesday, 13 February 2024.



Works will take place between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday with temporary traffic changes in place.



More information about the project, including further updates, can be found at transport.tas.gov.au/roadworks/current_projects/south_road_projects/styx_river_bridge_replacements.



Information about upcoming roadworks across the State can be found at transport.tas.gov.au/roadworks.



Project details:



Styx River Bridge at Bushy Park

  • The Styx River Bridge at Bushy Park will be built on a new alignment.
  • The current bridge will remain open during construction and will be removed once the new bridge is complete and in use.



Styx River Bridge at Glenora

  • The current Styx River Bridge at Glenora will be replaced with a new bridge.
  • A single-lane temporary bridge will be installed next to the current bridge while the new bridge is being built.
  • As the temporary bridge is only one lane, traffic travelling north must give way to traffic heading toward Hobart and only cross the bridge when safe to do so. Traffic management will be in place to guide road users.



River Derwent Bridge at Macquarie Plains

  • The current River Derwent Bridge on Gordon River Road, Macquarie Plains will be strengthened.
  • A reduced speed limit will be in place to keep workers and road users safe.



Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:



“The crossings along the Styx River and Gordon River Road are under more demand than ever from locals, freight and tourists – which is why we’re investing in these upgrades to ensure they’re fit-for-purpose long into the future.



“It’s fantastic to see these upgrades underway – with our $5 million investment in these works part of our commitment to upgrading ageing road networks across regional and rural Australia.”



Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, the Hon Michael Ferguson MP:



“The new crossing at Glenora will also provide pedestrians with a separated path over the bridge, while both Styx River bridges will be wider to provide better access for both heavy vehicles and cyclists.



“Strengthening the River Derwent Bridge on Gordon River Road will allow it to better manage future transport and freight needs.”



Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell MP:



“We want more people from across Tasmania and Australia to experience everything this beautiful part of the state has to offer, which is why it’s important our road networks are safe for both cars and pedestrians.



“It’s important that locals keep to the posted speed limits and follow the direction of traffic controllers and signs during these works – and allow an extra 15 minutes when travelling in the area.”