Question - Tamar River Drilling

Thursday 27 October 2022, Question without notice

Ms ARMITAGE question to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

[2.31 p.m.]

Recently, through notices to mariners, it was advised that drilling work was underway in the Tamar River. Can the Leader please advise:

(1) Is this drilling work to inform planning of a bridge over the upper Tamar River near Launceston;

(2) If not, what is the purpose of this drilling;

(3) With regard to the proposed bridge over the Tamar River, has the height been determined;

(4) Can the Government confirm that bridge height clearance will be at least equivalent to the current height limitations caused by the powerlines crossing the river at the north-western end of Home Reach at the Trevallyn Tailrace or the height of the span of the Batman Bridge, to enable tall vessels and yachts to access the Seaport, Syncrolift, Tamar Yacht Club, including slips;

(5) What consultation will the Government undertake prior to bridge design?

ANSWER

I thank the member for her question.

(1) Yes, the drilling is to inform design and cost estimation for the road and the bridge.

(2) Not applicable.

(3) The height of the proposed bridge and the air draft for navigation below the bridge has not been determined. We are using the air draft of 22 metres for the business case costings.

(4) Bridge navigation air draft will be reviewed during design development, if the business case is acceptable.

(5) The Government is committed to full and open public consultation on the location and alignment of the second Tamar River bridge. There will be specific consultation with the boating and commercial fishing community.