Tasman Council: Keeping The Key Road Open – A Truckie's Realistic Plea

Pedro Alvarez

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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The Economic Impact of Road Closures

Tasman Council road closures have a devastating ripple effect on the Tasmanian economy. Delays and increased transportation costs incurred due to road closures significantly impact businesses across the state. The economic consequences are far-reaching and affect everyone from large corporations to small, local businesses.

• Increased fuel consumption: Detours often mean longer routes, resulting in significantly higher fuel costs for trucking companies. This adds directly to the cost of goods and services.
• Lost delivery deadlines & penalties: Missed deadlines due to road closures lead to hefty penalties for businesses, impacting profitability and potentially damaging client relationships.
• Damage to goods during rerouting: Rougher, less-maintained alternative routes increase the risk of damage to goods being transported, leading to further financial losses for businesses.
• Reduced productivity: Delays caused by road closures directly impact productivity across various sectors, from construction to agriculture, which rely heavily on timely delivery of materials and goods.
• Impact on local businesses reliant on timely deliveries: Small businesses, particularly those reliant on just-in-time deliveries, are disproportionately affected by disruptions caused by Tasman Council road closures. The cumulative effect on local economies can be substantial.

The Tasman Council must fully consider the substantial economic impact of its road management decisions, particularly the significant transportation costs associated with unplanned closures.

Safety Concerns on Alternative Routes

When main roads are closed, truck drivers are forced onto alternative routes, many of which present significant safety hazards. These secondary roads are often narrower, poorly maintained, and unsuitable for heavy vehicles, creating a dangerous situation for truck drivers and other road users.

• Narrower, poorly maintained roads: Many alternative routes lack the width and structural integrity to safely accommodate large trucks, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Increased risk of accidents: The combination of narrower roads, poor road surfaces, and increased traffic on these usually quieter routes dramatically increases the likelihood of accidents.
• Longer journey times leading to driver fatigue: Detours significantly extend journey times, leading to driver fatigue, a major contributor to road accidents.
• Damage to trucks due to rough terrain: The rough and uneven surfaces of alternative routes can cause significant damage to trucks, resulting in costly repairs and downtime.

The Tasman Council's responsibility extends beyond just keeping major roads open; it includes ensuring the safety of all road users, including the hardworking truck drivers who keep Tasmania moving. Prioritizing road safety on all routes is paramount.

Proposed Solutions for Road Maintenance and Upkeep

Preventing future road closures requires proactive measures from the Tasman Council, focusing on improved road maintenance and preventative strategies. Investing in infrastructure and adopting a preventative maintenance approach is crucial.

• Increased funding for road repairs: Adequate funding is essential for timely and effective road repairs and maintenance.
• Regular inspections and preventative maintenance: Proactive inspections and preventative maintenance programs can identify potential problems early, preventing major disruptions and costly repairs down the line.
• Improved communication regarding road closures: Clear and timely communication is vital to minimize disruption when closures are unavoidable.
• Collaboration with trucking industry stakeholders: Engaging with the trucking industry to understand their needs and challenges can help the Tasman Council make informed decisions and implement effective solutions.

The Tasman Council's budget should prioritize road maintenance as a key element of infrastructure investment to ensure the long-term viability of Tasmania’s transport network.

The Call for Transparency and Communication from the Tasman Council

Effective communication from the Tasman Council regarding planned roadworks and unexpected closures is crucial. Transparency and proactive communication build trust and minimize the negative impact on businesses and truck drivers.

• Advance notice of closures: Providing ample advance notice of planned closures allows businesses and drivers to plan accordingly, mitigating disruption.
• Clear signage and alternative route information: Well-placed and clearly visible signage guiding drivers to safe and suitable alternative routes is essential.
• Regular updates on road conditions: Providing regular updates on road conditions through multiple channels ensures everyone is informed of any changes.
• Accessible communication channels (website, social media): Utilizing readily accessible communication channels like the council website and social media platforms ensures timely dissemination of information.

The Tasman Council must enhance its communication strategies concerning road closures and maintenance, focusing on transparency and proactive engagement with the community and stakeholders.

Conclusion: A Plea to the Tasman Council to Keep Key Roads Open

The economic and safety implications of Tasman Council road closures are significant and cannot be ignored. This article has highlighted the substantial costs, both financial and in terms of safety, associated with prolonged road closures and inadequate maintenance. We reiterate the truck driver's plea for improved road maintenance, preventative strategies, and transparent communication from the Tasman Council. The council must prioritize the upkeep of vital transport routes. Let's work together to ensure our key roads remain open, supporting both the economy and the safety of our hardworking truck drivers. Contact the Tasman Council today and make your voice heard. Demand better road management and protect our vital transport infrastructure.