Launceston’s beloved ‘Bike Centre’ will reopen to the public after a major $3.8 million redevelopment, with online bookings available from today ahead of the Easter break.
The iconic facility, officially known as the Road Safety Centre, was forced to close in 2019 due to serious structural issues that were discovered to be far more extensive than initially anticipated.
City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood acknowledged the project had taken longer than planned.
“Our top priority had to be the long-term safety of the site and everyone who uses it,” Garwood said.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Launceston community for your patience and understanding, which has allowed us to deliver a safe and significantly improved facility.”
The Centre, housed in a former water reservoir dating back to 1894, was transformed into a mini road safety village in 1980 by the Launceston Apex Club and the Council.
The extensive redevelopment was completed in four stages, including major earthworks, site stabilisation, demolition of outdated structures, and construction of new facilities.
The Federal Government contributed $1 million to the project under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Tasmanian Labor Senator Helen Polley welcomed the completion of the project.
“Thousands of children across Northern Tasmania can now use the new and updated Bike Centre once again to have fun, learn about road safety and enjoy time with their friends,” Polley said.
The renovated Centre features a complete mini road network with Launceston street names, roundabouts, traffic lights and safety signage.
It also includes a mini pump track, road-themed play equipment, weatherproof shelters with free BBQ facilities, and a new amenities block with accessible toilets.
A new online booking system and PIN code access to the Centre is in use, meaning no keys or cash are required
The project, initially estimated at $1.7 million in 2019, ultimately cost $3.8 million due to cost escalation and the discovery of additional structural issues during renovations.
