Michael Ferguson,Minister for Infrastructure and Transport
Jane Howlett,Minister for Small Business
As part of our plan to reopen the Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge by mid-July, work is continuing today on clearing rocks and rubble from the road following the completion of works to remove rocks from the rock face.
We are also undertaking additional maintenance works on other parts of the Tasman Highway while the road is closed. These works include trimming vegetation, clearing drains, upgrading road edges and repairing gabion walls.
Any works at the gorge that can be completed safely once the road is reopened will be scheduled and completed under traffic management including reduced speed limits and lane closures. We are doing everything we can to ensure the road can be reopened safely in mid-July.
Also, today (Thursday) an end-to-end grading of Wielangta Road will be completed, which will help maintain the road's condition so that the East Coast is continually connected to Hobart.
We are continuing to monitor Wielangta Road and Lake Leake Road daily and repairs will be undertaken as required.
Road users are reminded to drive to the conditions and comply with the speed limits for everyone's safety.
If you encounter potential hazards on these roads, please report them to the State Roads 24/7 hotline on 1300 139 933.
We have also provided more than $580,000 to businesses on the East Coast that have been affected by the recent closure of the Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge. Fifty-four applicants have now received funding, providing much-needed support during this unprecedented event.
The Government also established a free shuttle service for residents of Orford and Triabunna currently affected by the works to attend medical and other appointments and to conduct personal business in Hobart.
