The Elwick Road roundabout in Glenorchy would be removed and replaced with traffic lights under the state government’s $315 million plan to run rapid buses through Hobart’s northern suburbs.
The intersection would also get bus priority measures, with changes to how traffic moves through the area.
It is one of several local changes detailed in concept route maps released as part of a month-long consultation, which closes on October 9.
The proposed route would run between a new Hobart interchange station near Franklin Square and Claremont, stopping at 12 stations including Glebe, New Town, Moonah, Glenorchy, Montrose and Berriedale.
Services would run every 10 minutes during peak times and every 30 minutes off-peak.
Buses would use the former rail corridor only between New Town and Glenorchy.
For the rest of the route, they would run on existing roads using bus lanes and priority signals.
“This route was chosen because it provides a flexible, affordable public transport solution and supports future development along the route,” project documents state.
“Using the rail corridor from Claremont to Macquarie Point would be costly and involve complex environmental and heritage approvals.”
“Limiting rail corridor use to the section between New Town and Glenorchy reduces costs while still delivering speed and supporting urban development benefits where most people live.”
Parts of the route would also need new or reinforced retaining walls, which the government says could affect on-street parking and nature strips in some areas.
The Intercity Cycleway would remain but be realigned around new stations and intersections.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said the government wanted local input before the proposal went any further.
“We want to hear from people across the northern suburbs to help us test the proposal properly and make sure we consider the issues that matter locally,” Vincent said.
“All of the studies and analysis show that a rapid bus network is the best long-term option for greater Hobart, but we’re making sure we get the plan right before proceeding with such a significant investment.”
Community feedback will help shape a report due later this year. Subject to approvals, detailed planning would continue until mid-2027.
The proposal follows a 2025 study that recommended a three-corridor rapid bus network across greater Hobart, costed at $860 million, with the northern route to be built first.
That study found buses could be delivered at a lower capital cost than light rail while also serving the eastern shore and southern suburbs.
Feedback can be provided online, through forms at Glenorchy and Hobart councils or drop-in sessions along the route.
