Bass Highway deadly 13km stretch finally getting upgrades in 2027
Tasmania's transport minister says safety work will start in 2026 on a deadly Bass Highway stretch. This includes tenders and design work.
A section of the Bass Highway runs between Gannons Hill Road and Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm for 13 kilometres. Since 2001, it has claimed 15 lives and 31 serious injuries.
The most recent death was a triple fatality crash on 4 September. Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said work is being planned for 2026.
The state is working to allocate the tender and design work, both to begin as soon as possible next year. Work will focus on turnoff lanes and add deceleration and acceleration areas.
It will also fix design issues that create pooled water and other natural risks. Vincent noted that wire-rope barriers have eliminated head-on collisions on the Midland Highway but are not promised for this stretch in the near term.
The long-term solution is two lanes in each direction, many election cycles away, he said. It also needs federal funding beyond the state's $275 million commitment.
- 13 kilometres
- Deadly stretch length
- 15 lives, 31 serious injuries
- Deaths since 2001
- 4 September, triple fatality
- Most recent crash
- $275 million
- State funding committed
Why it mattersSince 2001, families have lost loved ones on this road. Now upgrades show the government is acting on the data.
AustraliaTasmanians who use the Bass Highway will see safety improvements in 2027, though the most comprehensive redesign is years away.
Corroborated bytheadvocate.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 d ago
