Tasmans Arch and Devils Kitchen on the Tasman Peninsula have reopened to visitors after a $1.9 million upgrade that added a new viewing platform and improved access for people with disability.
The two sites closed on April 15 for the works, which were originally expected to finish in August. Parks and Wildlife said the work has now been completed.
The centrepiece is a tiered viewing platform overlooking the coastal cliffs of Waterfall Bay, with views out to Cape Hauy, The Lanterns and Hippolyte Rocks.
“These iconic sites were closed over the last few months to allow for works to upgrade the site to be completed,” the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service said.
“Visitors can now enjoy improved accessibility, upgraded walking tracks and enhanced viewing areas, creating a safer and more welcoming experience.”
Walking tracks and viewing areas have also been upgraded, sections of track have been realigned and the access road has been renewed.
The accessibility features were developed in consultation with disability and accessibility advocates during planning and design, it said.
The state government committed $1.65 million to the project, with a further $250,000 coming from its disability access initiative.
Tasmanian company AJR Construct won the contract through an open tender in February and was the major works contractor. A range of local contractors and suppliers also worked on the project.
The works were scheduled over winter to limit disruption during the upcoming busier summer season.
The upgrade is the second stage of the Tasman Gateway Project. The first stage, finished in 2022, delivered a new public toilet facility, an upgraded car park and a dedicated bus layby.
Similar accessibility work has been carried out at Goblin Forest, Stanley Nut Reserve, Ferndene and the Dove Lake boardwalk.
