McVilly Drive Closure and Major Sewer Works Begin This Morning

Commuter Alert: New Road Closures on McVilly Drive

Hobart commuters heading through the Queens Domain this morning should prepare for significant changes to traffic flow. Starting at 6:00 AM today, Monday, 16 March 2026, McVilly Drive is closed to all vehicular traffic between Davies Avenue and the Tasman Highway interchange. This total closure is necessary for the installation of a critical new sewer main in the area and is expected to cause localized congestion during the morning peak.

The City of Hobart expects the closure to remain in place around the clock until at least Tuesday, 31 March. Motorists who typically use this route to access the Tasman Highway or the Regatta Grounds are strongly advised to divert via Evans Street or the Brooker Highway. While pedestrian paths remain largely open, those accessing nearby sporting facilities should follow on-site signage as minor diversions may be in place.

Bridgewater Bridge and Northern Outlet Updates

While the new Bridgewater Bridge has been operational for several months, dismantling of the old bridge structure remains a priority for the newly formed Building Tasmania department. Motorists traveling between the Midland Highway and the Brooker Highway should stay alert for construction vehicles entering and exiting the site near the northern and southern bridge approaches.

While no full road closures are scheduled for the bridge today, intermittent minor delays are expected during work hours from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Crews are currently focused on removing structural components, which may require temporary slow-downs for heavy haulage vehicles leaving the site.

Regional Roadworks: Boyer Road

To the west of the city, land stability repairs continue along Boyer Road near New Norfolk. At the Derbyshire Cliffs section near Pulpit Rock Lookout, traffic is currently restricted to a single lane. Manual traffic control and traffic signals will be in place from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM today. Commuters traveling from the Derwent Valley toward the CBD should factor in an additional 10 to 15 minutes of travel time to account for potential queuing at the work zone.

Public Transport: Metro Tasmania Service Adjustments

Metro Tasmania has issued several updates for Monday morning bus users. Significant changes are in effect for the following areas:

• Kingston: A closure on Browns Road has necessitated minor route diversions for local services. Please check the Metro Tas app for updated stop locations.
• Springfield Interchange: Ongoing maintenance and painting works have resulted in temporary changes to stop assignments. Passengers are encouraged to arrive five minutes early to locate their correct departure point.
• Queens Walk: Local service adjustments are in place near Cornelian Bay due to separate road maintenance activities.

Commuter Tips for a Smooth Run

• Avoid the Queens Domain for through-travel today; use the Brooker Highway to reach the Eastern Shore more efficiently.
• Watch for variable message signs on the Southern Outlet for real-time updates on traffic density approaching the Davey Street intersection.
• Observe the 40km/h speed limits in all active work zones to ensure the safety of road crews and other motorists.