Michael Ferguson,Minister for Finance
The Australian and Tasmanian Governments are delivering more efficient and safer roads around Tasmania.
As part of this Plan, the community is invited to have its say on plans to upgrade the long maligned section of the Tasman Highway known as the Sideling.
The works will improve travel time and safety of the highway by widening and realigning highway curves as well as seal the road shoulders.
The jointly funded $50 million project involves upgrading 15 kilometres of the highway from south-east of the Sideling Lookout to Minstone Road in Scottsdale.
The Tasman Highway Sideling Road Upgrade Project will support economic and tourism growth in the region by providing improved access and safer road conditions.
The Tasman Highway passes over difficult terrain between Scottsdale and Launceston, winding through the Sideling Range. It has many tight curves that limit access for heavy vehicles.
The upgrade will be delivered in two stages. The first stage, between the "Lookout" on the Sideling and Whish-Wilson Road, is expected to start construction in December 2021 and be completed in early 2023.
The second stage, from Whish-Wilson Road to the intersection with Minstone Road in Scottsdale, is expected to start construction at the end of 2022 and be completed in mid-2024.
The plans can be viewed at the Dorset Council Chambers, 3 Ellenor St, Scottsdale, from Wednesday, 8 September to Wednesday, 22 September 2021. Members of the project team will be available at the chambers from 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm on 8 September 2021 to answer questions. Information is also available on the Transport website: www.transport.tas.gov.au/TasmanHighwaySideling
