Monday, February 10, 2025

Alexandra Suspension Bridge works swing into action

A major refurbishment of the iconic Alexandra Suspension Bridge in Launceston’s Cataract Gorge will begin this week.

The bridge was originally opened to the public on November 29, 1904, by Lady Edeline Strickland who named it the ‘Alexandra Bridge’. The suspension bridge was originally designed by St. John David and built by Salisbury Foundry Co.

Its construction was jointly funded by government and public subscriptions. It was destroyed by the 1929 floods and underwent two reconstructions — one in 1934 and another in 2004.

In 2020, the City of Launceston Council undertook the first stage of refurbishment works on the bridge, focusing on the structure’s two A-frame towers and anchor bolts.

The second stage of works will fully restore the bridge’s remaining components, including:

  • – Replacement of steel framing
  • – Replacement of timber handrail and side mesh panels
  • – Painting of top brackets
  • – Re-installation of existing timber deck boards.
    – The work will be undertaken in line with best practices for heritage restoration and preservation
    processes.

The Alexandra Suspension Bridge will be closed to pedestrians from today, with the project estimated for completion in May, weather permitting.

Council says visitors wishing to cross from one side of the Cataract Gorge to the other will be able to do so throughout the duration of the project via the Gorge Scenic Chairlift, First Basin causeway, or Kings Bridge.

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