Brighton Council hope Bridgewater Bridge will spark revitalisation of waterfront

Bridgewater is known for two things: the iconic bridge and a Maccas stop along the Midlands. But it’s hoped the build of the new Bridgewater Bridge will bring opportunity for a new precinct. Here is what is included in the masterplan.

Bridgewater Bridge.

Three storey buildings, new businesses, revitalised streets and better transport options could be on the cards for Bridgewater - all made possible with the construction of the new Bridgewater Bridge.

On Tuesday the Brighton Council endorsed its masterplan for the Bridgewater Bridge northern interchange precinct; It will now consult with the community about the future of the suburb.

At the centre of the plan is the Bridgewater waterfront, which would be transformed into a new precinct.

Brighton mayor Leigh Gray said the masterplan was an aspirational vision for the precinct.

“The river and its surrounds are a huge part of our community and need to form a big part of our future, apart from our people it is our greatest asset,” Mr Gray said.

“We want to make the Brighton municipality a destination rather than a place to just drive past.

“We are trying to ensure that our community takes advantage of the future possibilities surrounding the biggest infrastructure project in Tasmania [and] do not let the opportunity pass by without making it the catalyst for further development in the area.”

Brighton mayor Leigh Gray. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Under the plan, medium density buildings would go up, along with a wide range of housing options, a pedestrian network, improved transport options, and Old Main Road would be revitalised.

The new buildings would allow the creation of new businesses.

“Commercial and retail anchor tenancies will be part of a mixed use precinct that activates the streets and ground level day and night,” the masterplan said.

“These businesses will provide a range of employment opportunities for residents.”

Map shows proposed uses for land in Bridgewater. Image: Brighton Council

The precinct would also pave the way for more office space, creative spaces, as well as food and beverage offerings.

The plan says new buildings would strengthen local character, but it would also retain old buildings.

“The retention of the church, cemetery, coronation hall and old bridge structure will retain heritage and character within the precinct,” the plan says.

The plan could also present the opportunity for new transport options, including using the old rail lines as pedestrian and cycling pathways, while maintaining the line for the possibility of future use.

“It’s important to see the link of the masterplan into public transport; ferries and buses into the city from Bridgewater are a must,” Mr Gray said.

“The State Government and the members of the city deal should immediately start having conversations about these opportunities particularly in light of the State Government’s announcement of future ferry terminals on the Derwent.

“Bridgewater should be the starting point of the network and this is a discussion we are keen to get involved in.”

Mr Gray said the old Bridgewater Bridge could be used as part of the plan.

“Some of the old Bridge infrastructure could be repurposed and utilised for other uses such as a ferry terminal, cafe or bar or even a look out,” he said.

“This will celebrate the history of the Bridge rather than consign it the past.”

Early mapping shows what Bridgewater waterfront park could look like. Image: Brighton Council.

Under the plan, old main road would be revitalised, becoming the “village spine” of Bridgewater.

“Old Main Road at one time would have supported Bridgewater’s local centre,” the plan says.

“The position of the Midland Highway and Bridgewater Bridge redirected traffic from the centre. This led to the decline of Old Main Road

“To revitalise the road, streets would be landscaped, more greenery would be planted and some streets would be widened to accommodate outdoor dining.”

Originally published as Brighton Council hope Bridgewater Bridge will spark revitalisation of waterfront