Both lanes of the Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge reopens earlier than expected

Both lanes of the Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge will reopen earlier than anticipated with the repairs and the removal of rocks finally complete. LATEST >>

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Commuters to and from Orford can breathe a sigh of relief, with the Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge fully reopening to traffic sooner than expected.

After weeks of closures due to the removal of high-risk rocks overhanging the roadway, traffic conditions will return to normal from 5pm on Friday, with both lanes reopening 24 hours a day, seven days a week at a speed limit of 80km/h.

“I’m very pleased to announce that the Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge will return to normal tonight, earlier than anticipated,” said Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson.

Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge reopened. Picture: Chris Kidd

The highway was closed to all traffic on May 21 for the urgent roadworks with more than 2,000 tonnes of rock removed over six weeks.

The operation also saw the installation of mesh across the bottom of the rock face and repairs to the drainage and stone wall along the Prosser River.

Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge reopened. Picture: Chris Kidd

Despite efforts the state government said the repairs are only temporary at this stage with crews required to return to the site later this year to apply a final seal to the affected section of road when the weather is warmer.

“I thank the community for its understanding during these unprecedented works and everyone who worked on this massive project for their wonderful efforts around the clock and the Council for its ongoing support during this period.” said Mr Ferguson.

When you can and can’t travel through Paradise Gorge

Both lanes of the Tasman Hwy at Paradise Gorge have opened at certain times of day after previously being closed for weeks amid the danger of rockfalls.

A State Growth spokeswoman said the highway near Orford will be open on evenings and weekends from 6pm Friday.

“Our contractors are replacing stormwater culverts along the Highway, and expect to complete these works on Monday,” she said.

“Following this, both lanes of the highway will be open to traffic from 5.30pm – 6am on weekdays and all day on weekends.

Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge reopened. Picture: Chris Kidd

“There will be a reduced speed limit of 60km/h to ensure safety.”

In working hours between 7am-5pm weekdays, only the southbound lane would be open to traffic with a speed limit of 40km/h.

“Work to repair the stone wall alongside the Prosser River started this week and is expected to be completed by mid-August, weather permitting,” the State Growth spokeswoman said.

“Once this is completed, the road will be repaired, before returning the road to 24/7 two-lane operations.”

The Leith Overpass Project looking at improving safety for motorists turning right from Short Street and Braddons Lookout Road at the Bass Hwy, Leith has opened for viewing and consultation.

Tasman Highway at Paradise Gorge reopened. Picture: Chris Kidd

The State Growth spokeswoman encouraged locals to attend a consultation session at Turner’s Beach for the project, with bookings essential.

The Transport Tasmania government website revealed analysis conducted in recent years has suggested an overpass with slip lanes and ramps was the best way to make the road safer.

Fifteen crashes have been recorded in the area between 2010 and 2020.

The consultation period will end on August 11.

To view project materials visit transport.tas.gov.au/leithsafetyupgrade or visit Central Coast Council, 9 King Edward St, Ulverstone.

For updates on Paradise Gorge visit transport.tas.gov.au/orford