Launceston’s iconic Alexandra Suspension Bridge will close for more than three months from next week as it undergoes a major makeover.
The original bridge over Cataract Gorge was opened to the public on November 29 in 1904.
Since then, it has undergone two reconstructions. It was destroyed by the 1929 floods, rebuilt in 1934 and given another reconstruction in 2004 to keep it standing strong.
The latest round of refurbishment started in 2020, with the City of Launceston focusing on the bridge’s two A-frame towers and anchor bolts.
Now, the second stage of work will tackle the rest of the structure.
This includes replacing the steel framing, timber handrails and side mesh panels, giving the top brackets a fresh coat of paint and re-installing the existing timber deck boards.
The council says the restoration will follow best practices for heritage conservation, keeping this historic treasure in line with its original character.
As a result, the bridge will be closed to pedestrians from January 28 until May, weather permitting.
Visitors can still cross the gorge via the chairlift, First Basin causeway or Kings Bridge.
