RACT survey reveals the worst roads in the state

A survey of Tasmanian motorists has revealed the worst roads in the state – and one highway stands out as a clear problem for residents. SEE THE FULL LIST >>

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THE state’s worst roads have been revealed as determined by a survey of thousands of Tasmanians.

RACT’s member survey results, taken from a poll of 5000 motorists, show Tasmanian drivers want major improvements to state roads.

The Tasman Highway was voted the worst road in the state with nearly 40 per cent of those responding saying it needs urgent upgrades.

RACT chief member experience officer Stacey Pennicott said the motoring body’s 2021 focus would be on road safety after a “horror” year in which 36 Tasmanians were killed in car crashes.

“One of the ways to tackle the road safety challenge is to make sure our roads are up to scratch. According to our members, they’re clearly not,” she said.

“We asked our 200,000 members to tell us what roads weren’t up to scratch and the results were clear.

“As visitor numbers begin to pick up and as the population served by the Tasman [Highway] continues to grow, this highway is going to become more and more important. Unfortunately, it has not received anywhere near the investment required to keep up with demand.”

STATE’S WORST ROADS AS RATED IN 2019

A car crash on the Tasman Highway. Picture: Zak Simmonds

The Midland Highway was rated the second-worst road in the state ahead of Hobart’s Southern Outlet, the Bass Highway and the Channel Highway.

The Arthur, Huon and West Tamar highways were also rated poorly according to the survey respondents.

Ms Pennicott said long-term infrastructure upgrades and planning were needed.

“Each of Tasmania’s major highways needs a clear, detailed, 10-year improvement plan,” she said.

“The plan would outline what upgrades were needed, when they are needed and, importantly, how they will be funded.

“Long-term plans would also help our construction sector ensure they have the workforce and the capacity to deliver the projects.

“Importantly, it would ensure the community understands what the challenges are and how the Government is going to fix them.”

RACT chief member experience officer Stacey Pennicott wants the government to create long-term improvement plans for all the state’s major highways. Picture: Eddie Safarik

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson has said the state government would deliver a $485 million investment in state roads this year, as part of a $2.4 billion four-year roads and bridges program, jointly funded by the state and federal governments.

“Our $350 million South East Traffic Solution package, which will build capacity on the Tasman Highway to handle the rapidly growing demand from commuter, freight and tourist traffic, is progressing well,” he said

“Since being elected in 2014, the Tasmanian Liberal Government has delivered more than 150 road projects across Tasmania.”