The Liberal Government is committed to growing our tourism sector, and a newly completed bridge at Cockle Creek will help us to do just that.
Cockle Creek is a significant tourism destination in Tasmania’s far south. It’s the gateway to the Southwest National Park, the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and attractions like the iconic South Coast Track, which is soon to benefit from a $2 million upgrade announced in this year’s budget.
The old timber bridge had reached the end of its serviceable life and had been restricted to a load limit of 12 tonnes since last year, limiting access to the Southwest National Park and World Heritage Area.
The new $600,000 bridge was designed and constructed by VEC Civil Engineering. It has an estimated life span of 100 years and is better suited to provide for vehicle and pedestrian access into the future.
The bridge will also provide safe ongoing access to a popular camping site and to a number of properties in the area.
Tasmania’s National Parks and World Heritage Area give visitors a chance to get off the beaten track and enjoy a unique experience.
That’s why our Government has invited expressions of interest from investors with ideas for sensible and appropriate tourism developments in our wilderness areas.
This initiative will help us reach our target of growing Tasmania’s tourism industry to 1.5 million visitors a year by 2020.
Will Hodgman, Premier, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events
