Drivers have been stopped from turning left at a busy Hobart CBD intersection until at least next August as work ramps up on the Royal Hobart Hospital emergency department expansion.
The restriction at the intersection of Argyle and Liverpool streets is in place from 7am to 7pm each day.
It started on September 1 and is expected to remain until August 31, 2027.
Buses, taxis and bicycles can still turn left into Liverpool Street, but other traffic must use an alternative route.
The Department of Health says the restriction is needed to make room for a new ambulance zone and public drop-off area outside the hospital on Argyle Street.
Argyle Street has also been reduced to two lanes between Collins and Liverpool streets.
A department spokesperson said the temporary changes were also intended to “help maintain traffic flow and improve car park exit access”.
New road markings and signs are now in place.
The works are part of the $130 million emergency department expansion.
The emergency department entrance will move to Argyle Street from 8am on September 15, with the Liverpool Street and Campbell Street entrances closing at the same time.
The expansion forms part of a broader second stage of works at the hospital, with construction expected to continue until early 2028.
The Hobart City Council said it had approved the state government’s traffic management plan for the project.
Karen Abey, the council’s director of strategic and regulatory services, said drivers wanting to move quickly through the city should use other streets.
“We recommend using Barrack, Bathurst and Brisbane streets when passing through the city as these prioritise car movements,” Abey said.
Building Tasmania, which manages traffic signals in the city, was contacted for comment.
