Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area access upgrades complete

Works to replace the Cassiterite Creek Bridge as well as repair and upgrade shack node roads in the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area are complete.

Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, said the bridge is now open and will provide ongoing secure access to the historic mining town of Balfour for residents and visitors to the area. 

“The new bridge, which was cast in Ulverstone and installed by Hazell Bros, has a 100-year lifespan and its load capacity has increased to modern standards as a result of the works,” Minister Duigan said. 

“The replacement also allows continued access by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service staff so they can maintain this area, which holds natural and historical value.

“Additionally, upgrades to improve shack node roads in the Arthur-Pieman region are now complete, including vegetation clearing, new road culverts and re-gravelling, with new safety and advisory signage planned to be installed. These works supported the regional economy through the engagement of local contractors including sourcing materials from local quarries.

“The bridge replacement and road maintenance works represent a $900,000 investment from the $10 million Tasmanian Government commitment to support sustainable recreational off-road vehicle opportunities in the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, and the wider West Coast region.

“An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is to continue to build on Tasmania’s reputation as a world-leading tourism destination, highlight Tasmania’s unique experiences, and ensure that the visitor economy continues to have a positive impact on Tasmania’s environment, economy, and way of life.

“The Tasmanian Government acknowledges how special the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area is, containing outstanding natural values and part of the Western Tasmania Aboriginal Cultural Landscape National Heritage Place. Ensuring access and maintenance of roads in the region is important to enabling safe and sustainable enjoyment of this area by Tasmanians and visitors.” 

Arthur-Pieman Conservation Management Committee Chair, Lochie Avery, welcomed the upgrades. 

“As part of our role in representing the local community, we have worked closely with the Tasmania Parks and Wildife Service to support the delivery of improvements to shack node roads, providing safer access for the community to key areas of the APCA,” Mr Avery said. 

“It was great to see upgrades to a range of areas, including West Point, Bluff Hill, Airerys Roads, Nelson Bay, Sarah Anne and Couta Rocks.”

For more information on the Off Road Vehicle Project, visit the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website