The development of the University of Tasmania’s new Inveresk campus has reached an important milestone with the official opening of the North Esk River pedestrian and cycle bridge.
The new $5 million North Esk River pedestrian and cycle bridge is a key community asset that provides a vital link between the Inveresk precinct and the Launceston CBD.
The bridge is part of the first stage of construction of the $283.4 million redevelopment of the University of Tasmania – a major initiative under the $536 million Launceston City Deal.
The staged approach to the development of the Inveresk campus is allowing for more ongoing work for apprentices and other employees, maximising the benefits to local Launceston companies and businesses.
Local specialists BridgePro Engineering were engaged to build the bridge and construction started in March 2020. The structural steel components of the bridge were built by Haywards, another local company.
The redevelopment of the University of Tasmania in Launceston includes relocating the Launceston campus to Inveresk, strengthening the future of the Australian Maritime College, establishing Launceston as the home of the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, and establishing the Defence and Maritime Innovation and Design Precinct at Newnham.
The project is funded under the Launceston City Deal, with the Commonwealth contributing $130 million, the Tasmanian Government contributing $60 million, the local government contributing $5.4 million, and the University of Tasmania contributing $88 million.
More information on the Launceston City Deal is available at:
www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities/city-deals/launceston.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP:
“The opening the North Esk River pedestrian and cycle bridge today is a key milestone in the development of the University of Tasmania’s Inveresk campus – one of the largest infrastructure projects undertaken in Launceston.
“The new campus, which is a key project within the $536 million Launceston City Deal, will help increase the vibrancy of the Launceston CBD by creating a new student population, fostering research and innovation, and supporting local jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for State Growth, the Hon Roger Jaensch MP:
“This new community asset providing access to University of Tasmania’s Launceston campus and surrounding precinct will further enhance our university’s appeal to more tertiary students.
The pedestrian and cycle bridge will connect two locations at the heart of Launceston and is a true demonstration of how the City Deal brings partners and local industry together for greater city outcomes
This is another important initiative being delivered as part of our City Deal that will transform Launceston into one of the most liveable and innovative regional cities.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bass, Bridget Archer MP:
“The bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure connecting the new Inveresk campus to our vibrant and bustling CBD.
“I look forward to seeing more projects delivered through the University of Tasmania redevelopment and seeing the many positive outcomes that will benefit the Launceston community and surrounding region.”
Quotes attributable to the Mayor for the City of Launceston, Albert van Zetten:
“This is an excellent example of how three levels of government can successfully come together and work towards a common goal, with the Launceston City Deal continuing to promote new opportunities for growth and development.
“It is encouraging to see opportunities available for local industries and businesses to take on the projects and grow, supporting local jobs.”