The $750,000 reconstruction is being funded jointly by the Circular Head Council and the Australian Government, which is contributing $450,000 of the total through its Roads to Recovery Program.  The work is expected to take 10 weeks to complete and will involve minimal road closures.

Details of the project and its benefits were outlined today by the Federal Member for Braddon, Mark Baker, and the Mayor of the Circular Head Municipality, Ross Hine.

Mr Baker said the Roads to Recovery Program had been an invaluable funding tool in assisting local councils utilise Australian Government funding for important transport infrastructure supporting local and regional economies.

"This project is the first among the Circular Head Council's strategic road network improvements following an examination of traffic flows through the municipality to identify sections of road with high usage and poor traffic conditions," Mr Baker said.

"Major works will commence on 23 January, when up to four metres will be cut from crests and the dislodged earth used to fill dips by up to one metre.  This will improve visibility and reduce grades for heavy vehicles," he said.

Cr Hine said preliminary works included relocation of water mains from 5 January 2006, to be followed by the relocation of electricity services in the path of the road improvements from 09 January.

"The initial focus will be on improved safety along the section between Faheys Lane and Purdys Lane," Cr Hine said.

"By straightening curves and reducing the number and height of crests, it is expected several thousands of dollars will be saved through transport efficiency.  A safer road built to a better alignment will also reduce damage to fences and private vehicles caused by drivers regularly misjudging the road path along this stretch and losing control of their vehicles," he said.

Mr Baker and Cr Hine urged road users to be patient during the construction phase and plan their journey to allow for minor delays.

"Delays can be expected, but will be minimised," Cr Hine said.  "It is important for motorists to recognise that temporary lower speed limits will be in place to ensure safety for travellers and the road gangs carrying out the work".

"During the short period of full road closure, the Tasmanian Department of  Infrastructure, Energy and resources (DIER) and council will permit B-Doubles to divert via the Scotchtown and Trowutta Roads," Cr Hine said.

The Irishtown Road upgrade is being carried out entirely with local expertise and labour, using Works Plus as the principal contractor.

Media inquires:
Circular Head Municipality - 03 6452 4800
Mr Mark Barker's Office - 03 64311 1333

Authorised for general media distribution by John van Gaalen, acting General Manager, Circular Head Council on 10^th January, 2006.