Tender advertised for West Tamar Highway intersection upgrades

The tender has been advertised for upgrades to two busy intersections on the West Tamar Highway in Launceston.

The intersections at Ecclestone Road and Riverview Road will be upgraded to improve safety and efficiency for road users and pedestrians.

The Riverview Road project will make it easier and safer for traffic entering and exiting the intersection.

It includes a new U-turn lane for traffic heading towards Launceston and formalises a U-turn lane for Legana-bound traffic, helping to separate traffic movements at the intersection.

At Ecclestone Road and Windsor Drive, the intersection will be improved by installing a slip-lane for traffic turning left from Windsor Drive and a new right-turn movement for traffic turning out of Ecclestone Road onto the highway.

The project also includes pedestrian safety features, including a raised pedestrian crossing and a refuge island for the left turn out of Windsor Drive, a raised pedestrian crossing for left turns into Ecclestone Road and a pedestrian crossing across the West Tamar Highway.

The tender is now advertised and is open until Wednesday 7 October.

Pending a successful contract award, work is expected to start early in 2027.

These upgrades form part of the Australian and Tasmanian governments’ $22.5 million joint commitment to targeted improvements along the West Tamar Highway between Exeter and Launceston.

The West Tamar Highway carries commuter, commercial, freight, public transport, tourist, pedestrian and cyclist movements.

More information on Ecclestone Road upgrades here.

More information on Riverview Road upgrades here.

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent:

“The West Tamar Highway is a vital link, carrying daily commuters, freight and tourists. There will be some delays during these works, but I appreciate all motorists’ patience as we deliver these targeted upgrades.

“We are getting on with delivering these upgrades through the release of the tender.

"These important works to the West Tamar Highway will improve safety and deliver a more efficient experience for all road users.

“These upgrades also focus on improved safety for pedestrians, who can be most at risk for serious injury when crossing busy highways and side streets.

“This is an important next step for these critical upgrades and marks continued progress under the joint $22.5 million investment in the West Tamar Highway between Exeter and Launceston, following the start of work at the Forest Road intersection just last month.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bass Jess Teesdale:

“As a Riverside local, I know how busy these intersections get and how frustrating it can be to turn onto the highway, particularly at peak times.

“I’ve heard from neighbours who want safer crossings and a better way to get in and out of Ecclestone Road and Riverview Road. These upgrades are designed to make a real difference to the trips we make every day.

“Advertising the tender is an important step. I’m looking forward to seeing work get underway once a contractor has been appointed.”