Consider Alternatives to Huonville Bypass

This is the first in a series of articles on transport in the Huon Valley by Circular Economy Huon, which will outline our vision for the future and invite input from community. For more information on CEH, visit: https://circulareconomyhuon.org.au/

The transport needs of Tasmanians have been poorly catered for over the years, despite $3bn/year of taxpayer money directed towards roads on measures to alleviate congestion and ease freight movement. The Huon Valley has been especially neglected by successive state and federal governments. Rather than Tasmanians finding it easier and cheaper to commute and move around their region and the state, congestion continues to worsen, and alternatives to continual spending on road infrastructure are not being considered.

As in many sectors in Tasmania, strategic direction seems to be lacking and regional visions for the future are ignored. The current Huonville bypass proposal is a case in point. Huon Valley Council floated this idea years ago and the Department of State Growth (DSG) launched a ‘consultation’ process in January and February 2022, during the time many people were still enjoying their summer holidays. Only 216 people responded to the consultation which provided only two options, both for a Huonville bypass, but with different routes from Flood Road – Sale Street intersection to different points either on Main Street or further north on the Huon Highway.

On the basis of this public consultation, and for the project to receive funding, it needed to be approved by the Joint Standing Committee on Public Works which holds hearings to assess whether a project represents good value for taxpayers’ money. Circular Economy Huon (CEH made a submission in writing to the Parliamentary Committee and two members of the group appeared before it on 17 October.

The case for the bypass was presented by three employees from DSG. They gave evidence and answered questions for two hours. Earlier the Parliamentary Committee spent the morning with the DSG representatives in and around Huonville, visiting the site of the proposed road.

CEH members were the only other representors and were given only about 15 minutes to put the case and respond to questions, and had not seen the written report from DSG. Because the time was so limited CEH then sent in more detailed documentation about traffic flows and comparative road safety.

The bypass would cost $29.2m, and CEH is doubtful that it would achieve its goal of reducing congestion and increasing the amenity of Huonville. DSG did not present data on the direction, timings and purpose of traffic flows in and around Huonville. What percentage of traffic to and from Cygnet would actually use the bypass?

In April 2019, Huon Valley Council endorsed a Huonville -Ranelagh Masterplan, following community consultation. A primary action, which has not been implemented was the creation of: “A comprehensive and holistic transport management study that considers the critical elements of the transport network within and around Huonville and Ranelagh.” The framework also calls for: “Coordinated action between Council, government agencies, community groups, businesses and investors [to] minimize the risk of ad hoc responses…” .

CEH’s contention is that before the bypass proposal is approved, the holistic transport management study should be undertaken. This should include other transport options, especially incorporating walking and cycling tracks, and also exploring the potential for the introduction of local community transport such as on-demand community bus services, car-pooling, using modern technology as has been adopted by other townships around the world. With funding of $29.2m for the Huon Valley available it is critical that it is used to the best advantage.

In conclusion CEH believes that a decision on a bypass – which at first sight appears attractive – is premature. Considerably more data analysis, consultation and planning is required, and any proposal for a new bypass must be reviewed in conjunction with the need to masterplan Huonville town centre, improve streetscapes including more green spaces and pedestrian precincts. Commerce and community need Huonville to be an attractive place to stay, visit and wander around, not just a town to be bypassed.