The possibility of a bridge across the Tamar has resurfaced with a survey asking Tasmanians for their opinions on the merit of a shortcut between the West and East Tamar.
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The survey asks respondents 20 questions covering traffic, landscape and finances, including whether users would be prepared to pay a toll for using the proposed bridge.
Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said he expected a bridge would eventually be required to ease the flow of traffic through Launceston.
“In the long-term it will have to happen,” Alderman Van Zetten said.
"We're probably not there yet but when the traffic gets busier it will come and it will have to be, but who knows how far away that might be.
“I think it's something that will be important in the long run but we're talking probably 10-years plus away.”
The concept of a second major Tamar bridge has been debated for decades, with the most recent speculation suggesting a link between Forster Street in Invermay and the West Tamar Highway.
Alderman van Zetten said it was too early to determine where a second Tamar bridge should be situated but expected the project would need support from federal or state government to get off the ground.
“We need some funding, federal or state, to do just a costing of it to see whether it's worth it and to look at the route that it should be.”
“We need... to see what it would cost and to be ready for when the opportunity arises.”
Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding said while a Tamar bridge was not an immediate necessity, he expected it would come under Infrastructure Tasmania consideration in the coming years.
“This issue was raised when I met with the Launceston Council earlier this year,” Mr Hidding said.
“It is not currently being considered as a priority project but doesn't mean the council shouldn't explore ideas.
“I expect this idea will make it to the infrastructure pipeline of possible future projects being put together by ITas.”
The survey is available at www.survio.com/survey/d/W3K6S0I5H9I6R9Q5S