Media Release - Labor’s 10-year Infrastructure Transport Plan a win for Northern Midlands

Posted on April 26, 2021

Northern Midlands Council has welcomed the Tasmanian Labor Party’s 10-Year Infrastructure Transport Plan, released last week ahead of the election on 1 May.

Mayor Mary Knowles OAM said the plan included a commitment to address a significant safety concern in the heart of Longford, as well as the development of an intermodal facility in the TRANSlink precinct and the upgrade of Illawarra Road from Longford to the Bass Highway.

“The current configuration of the intersection of Wellington, Marlborough and Williams Streets in Longford, locally known as Heritage Corner, has been the site of a number of traffic accidents and near misses,” Mayor Knowles said.

“The installation of a roundabout and reconfiguration of the intersection surrounds will address the current risk and increase safety for the local community and visitors to our municipality.

“The TRANSlink commercial, industrial and logistics precinct adjacent to Launceston Airport plays a vital role in the state’s transport network as a key distribution point for goods and services in Northern Tasmania.

“The construction of an intermodal facility including a 24/7 freight hub, new rail spur from the existing line, warehousing and administrative buildings will significantly improve access to and from interstate and overseas markets, particularly for perishable goods.”

Labor’s Plan also commits funding to upgrade Illawarra Road between Longford and the Bass Highway, which carries a high volume of traffic to and from the North-West of the state.

“The Australian Government has also committed funding for this upgrade, and Northern Midlands Council will collaborate on the design of the new road, and to advocate for the inclusion of off-road pedestrian/cyclist shared pathways,” Mayor Knowles said.

“In total, these three projects represent an investment in excess of $150 million in Northern Midlands’ transport infrastructure and will significantly contribute to economic growth and prosperity in our region.”

For further information, please contact Mayor Mary Knowles OAM on 0408 766 625.