Opening up the River Derwent at Bridgewater

In coming days, the demolition of the old Bridgewater Bridge, north of Hobart, is set to reach a major milestone with the removal of the 41-metre lift span from the structure using barges and cranes.

The staged removal will start from 9 January with elevating the lift span, followed by positioning a barge downstream for overnight removal scheduled for 12 January.

The lift span will then be dismantled and transported offsite to be recycled.

Removing the lift span and reopening river access to vessels will create new opportunities for tourism, recreation and local industry throughout the Derwent Valley.

One of the benefits will be the return of the New Norfolk Regatta in 2027.

The event was last held in 2000 before being discontinued because of restricted and uncertain upstream river access.

Demolition of the old bridge will continue until mid-2026, and the area remains an active work zone.

While the lift span is safely dismantled and removed from the site, there will be no access for vessels through the main navigation channel.

A notice to mariners will be issued through Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) to redirect river traffic through a separate span of the bridge. Mariners are urged to check the MAST website before travelling through the area.

The $786 million New Bridgewater Bridge opened to traffic in June 2025.

The Australian Government contributed $628.8 million to the transformative project, with the Tasmanian Government contributing the remaining $157.2 million.

For further information visit bridgewaterbridge.tas.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“The New Bridgewater Bridge project represents a modern era of infrastructure for Tasmania, with dual carriageway, a footpath and cycle line.

“The Australian Government’s investment in this landmark project, partnering with the Tasmanian Government, delivered on our commitment to build modern, safe and efficient transport links across Tasmanian.

“Seeing the old life bridge come down after six decades of service, will be a bittersweet moment for Tasmanians. It was one of oldest working lift bridges in Australia, but also a cause of considerable traffic delays as traffic volumes north of Hobart increased.

“Instead of waiting for ships to pass through on their journey down the Derwent, traffic now glides above them. A welcome change, and the proud legacy of more than 1,000 Tasmanians that worked on the project.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Kerry Vincent:

“The removal of the lift span is a turning point in reconnecting communities along the River Derwent.

“This milestone reflects years of planning and hard work and is a significant milestone in delivering a safe, modern crossing between Bridgewater and Granton.

“Restoring uninterrupted river access is vital for local industry, recreation and tourism throughout the Derwent Valley.

“Removing the old bridge is not just about removing old infrastructure. It is about providing better access and also recognising the important history of the crossing.”