An independent review of alternate bridging and route options for the Brighton Bypass has been completed by engineering and construction consultant Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM).

SKM was commissioned by the Australian Government to review the costings as well as the feasibility of GHD’s conclusions on the alternative route options put forward by the Tasmanian Government. They also explored different bridging options.

The key findings are:

• The alternative bridging options would increase the overall cost of the bypass by at least $127 million and delay its completion by up to 4 years while new planning and environmental approvals were sought.


• Changing the route of the bypass would add between $82 and $140 million to the overall cost of the project.

In light of these findings, the Australian Government will continue working with the Tasmanian Government to deliver the project as currently approved, including a single arched 70-metre span bridge which will not disturb the levee.

An additional $12.7 million will be allocated from the Nation Building Program to complete this project. The Australian Government will also investigate the possibility of purchasing more of the Jordan River levee so its aboriginal heritage value can be further protected.

A copy of the full SKM report can be found on www.nationbuildingprogram.gov.au.