Rail Trail progress positivity
August 20, 2025
City of Launceston (COL) has given its greatest indication yet that it could jump on board with a joint venture for the $5.14m North East Rail Trail.
Mayor Matthew Garwood said the COL has made progress since the December approach by Dorset to collaborate on the long-mooted project, a 40km trail from Scottsdale to Lilydale.
“Over the past eight months we’ve been digging into everything that needs to line up for this stage to succeed from asset ownership and maintenance right through to the future opportunities it can create,” Cr Garwood said.
“The conversations have been really positive, and I’m confident we’re heading in the right direction.
“Right now, the expectation is that Council will formally consider a detailed proposal to finalise stage three before the end of the year, bringing us another step closer to making this fantastic project a reality for Northern Tasmania.”
Dorset has $1.47m committed from Federal funds that needs to be spent before the end of the year.
It’s hoped if COL join forces with Dorset it would give the project “more clout” for increased funding, Mayor Rhys Beattie said.
“It is very positive. A lot of people
are asking questions around timeframes for business opportunities to do with it and are looking to gear up for it,” Cr Beattie said.
Meanwhile, after years of underutilisation the old Scottsdale Railway Station precinct is about to receive a facelift.
Dorset Council has released plans for the open space project with final approvals now in place.
Dorset Mayor Rhys Beattie said recently acquired Heritage Tasmania approval had been the final piece in the puzzle with procurement processes ready to go on the project.
“The project’s direction has been informed via community consultation conducted in the latter part of last year and will see the site redeveloped in stages as budget and resources allow,” he said.
Stage one included the already completed town link pathway from Coplestone St to King St and will cost $220,000 in total. New works will include landscaping and the installation of picnic tables, bike racks, a water refill station and some signage.
The rotunda which originally stood at the Rec Ground and was later moved to the Sideling will also be utilised in the project as part of a Rotary initiative.
The second stage, to be completed at a later date, hasn’t been fully costed but will include more greenery to screen the neighbouring Incitec Pivot shed as well as an informal stage/seating area.
Cr Beattie said Council received funding via Round 2 of the Open Spaces Grants Program for the initial stage of the project.
He said it would transform the area into usable community space while making a positive impact on the overall appeal of the area.
“The project is a great opportunity to showcase the history of the railway and the area so that is something we will be working towards achieving,” he said.
The project is complementary to the redevelopment of the Scottsdale Railway Station which will include toilet and shower facilities.
The station project is being led by the Rotary Club of Scottsdale, with
Council providing support and financial assistance.
“Rotary is progressing with planning for the station so this project will complement their work beautifully and set up the whole precinct space for greater usability,” Cr Beattie said.
Construction is expected to commence shortly and be finished by the end of the year.
You can see the concept designs for Stage one and two on the Council’s website.
An artist impression of Stage 1 of the Scottsdale Railway Station development.