Tasmania Police will reopen the Arthur Highway for general access from 6pm tonight. This was confirmed following an assessment of the fire and wind conditions this afternoon.

Motorists should drive with caution, however, as there will be about 100 work crews on the Arthur Highway tomorrow (Monday January 14), particularly between Sugarloaf Road and the Dunalley bridge. Police advise there will be traffic delays due to the crews in the area, who are working to restore essential services.

Drivers of light vehicles whose destination is south of Dunalley are encouraged to avoid this particular section of the highway by detouring via Sugarloaf Road and Fulham Roads to avoid lengthy delays. Similarly, those travelling from areas south of Dunalley towards Hobart are encouraged to take this route.

Drivers of large vehicles with trailers, service vehicles and tourist buses should continue to use the Arthur Highway.

Police remind motorists that the Arthur Highway has a speed limit of 60km/hr, and some areas may be signposted at 40km/hr due to works.

Police will maintain a highly visible presence in the area, and will be enforcing the speed limit to assist in the safety of work crews and motorists. Police advise motorists to drive with care and attention and be patient.

Motorists are also asked to be mindful of stock on the roadway due to the destruction of fences, particularly in the Sugarloaf Road and Fulham Road areas.

People travelling to the Tasman Peninsula area should avoid entering areas where the fires are still active to enable fire service personnel to access the area. Refer to the TFS website www.fire.tas.gov.au

Police advise that people entering the fire affected areas should be aware of a range of potential hazards, including fire debris and damaged trees, which can remain a hazard for a long time.

In addition, police advise anyone with non essential travel to avoid the area due to the significant works underway and the hazards in the fire affected area.

Tasmania Police Media & Communications

(03) 6230 2296