WORK has begun on the first stage of the Northern Roads Package, a $55m project to provide a more efficient route for freight vehicles travelling across the north of Tasmania.

Tasmanian minister for infrastructure and transport Michael Ferguson said the Package would create better transport routes across Tasmania.

“The package will provide a more efficient route for freight vehicles travelling between the industrial precinct of Bell Bay and the Bass Highway,” Minister Ferguson said.

“Upgrades to Batman Highway, Frankford Main Road and Birralee Main Road will better accommodate heavy freight vehicles, making freight transport in Tasmania safer and more reliable.”

Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the upgrade includes providing sealed shoulders, which will make the road safer for use by heavy vehicle operators.

“The package will provide a faster and more efficient route for freight vehicles travelling between the industrial precinct of Bell Bay and the Bass Highway by upgrading sections of the Batman Highway, Frankford Main Road and Birralee Main Road,” Mrs Archer said.

“It will reduce freight traffic through central Launceston and operating costs for heavy vehicle operators, while improving safety for all road users travelling between the north-east and north-west of the state.”

Tasmanian construction company Hazell Bros has started work on upgrading the Batman Highway between East Tamar Highway and the Batman Bridge. Site-set up and preliminary works have started, with major construction expected to start in mid-January.

Work on the Batman Highway project is expected to be completed by mid-2021, weather permitting.