After years of delay and cost blow out, North Tasmanian road centre reopens
After a landslip shut this children’s learning centre’s doors in 2019, its mini-roadways are back and better than ever. Inside its new build.
Tasmania
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After closing in 2019 due to massive damage from a landslip, the Road Safety Centre has finally reopened its doors.
Even Premier Jeremy Rockliff has shared his excitement for the reopening of the beloved ‘Bike Centre.’
There are plenty of fond memories of birthday parties and school excursions at the centre which opened back in 1980.
The project hit some hurdles, thanks to Covid and other issues, and costs went up, but the much-loved centre is ready for bookings from Monday.
City of Launceston mayor Matthew Garwood acknowledged the slow process.
“The structural issues identified during early investigations were far more extensive than we anticipated, and our top priority had to be the long-term safety of the site and everyone who uses it,” he said.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Launceston community for your patience and understanding, which has allowed us to deliver a safe and significantly improved facility.”
Back in 2019, the estimated costs of repairing and upgrading the site was $1.7 million and in December 2023, reports showed further funds were needed due to cost escalation.
The total cost ended up being $3.8 million and included a $1 million Federal grant under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Now the site has a complete mini road network with Launceston street names, roundabouts, traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and safety signage, mini pump track and road-themed play equipment, a bike repair station, and international weatherproof shelters with free Internal BBQ facilities, tables and seating.
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