Sandy Bay Road

Last updated

Sandy Bay Road

1918 02 14 Insert 3a Hobart.jpg
Sandy Bay Road in 1918 with a double-decker tram
General information
TypeRoad
Length12 km (7.5 mi)
Opened19th century
Route number(s) AUS Alphanumeric Route B68.svg B68
Former
route number
Australian state route 6.svg State Route 6 [1]
Major junctions
North endAUS Alphanumeric Route A6.svg Davey Street
Hobart CBD
South end Channel Highway
Taroona
Location(s)
Region Hobart
Major suburbs Battery Point, Sandy Bay, Lower Sandy Bay, Taroona

Sandy Bay Road (Route B68) is a key arterial road in Tasmania that connects the southeastern edge of the Hobart CBD with the southeastern suburb of Taroona. It spans approximately 12 kilometres, providing both scenic views and access to several historic sites and modern amenities. The road begins as a continuation of Harrington Street near its intersection with Davey Street and follows a primarily southward path.

Contents

Route Description

Sandy Bay Road begins on the southeastern edge of Hobart’s CBD, extending southwards alongside the western edge of St David's Park and bypassing the historic suburb of Battery Point. It then enters Sandy Bay, passing notable sites such as Wrest Point Hotel Casino, Australia's first legal casino.

Continuing south, the road travels along the western shore of the River Derwent, hugging the river through Lower Sandy Bay and along Long Beach. The road provides access to several parks, beaches, and recreational areas. In Lower Sandy Bay, Sandy Bay Road passes the Alexandra Battery, a historic defensive structure with views over the Derwent River.

As it continues toward Taroona, Sandy Bay Road begins to climb slightly, eventually connecting to the Channel Highway, which continues southwards to other towns along the coast. The road is designated as route B68.

History

Sandy Bay Road was first established as a colonial track in the early 19th century, initially serving as a vital connection between Hobart and the southern settlements. Early maps and artworks depict a rugged path tracing the river’s western edge, which was widened over the decades to accommodate increased traffic as Hobart expanded. By the early 20th century, the road was surfaced with bitumen.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sandy Bay Road was a key route for Hobart’s public transport network. Trams initially operated along the road, connecting Hobart to Lower Sandy Bay. The tram lines were later replaced by trolley buses, which continued to serve the road until the mid-20th century. This public transit history is commemorated by several historic photographs and local heritage markers along the route. [2]

Notable Landmarks

Developments

In recent years, Sandy Bay Road has undergone several improvements to support increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Bike lanes have been added in sections to encourage sustainable transport options, and safety upgrades have been implemented at key intersections, particularly near schools and commercial areas. [3]

See also

Australia road sign W5-29.svg Australian Roadsportal

References

  1. Former State Route Numbering System in Tasmania, Ozroads: the Australian Roads Website. Retrieved 30 January 2008.
  2. Peter Terry (1995). A Short History of Public Transport in Tasmania. Historical Society of Tasmania.
  3. "Sandy Bay Road Upgrade Completed". Department of State Growth. 2021.
Template:Attached KML/Sandy Bay Road
KML is from Wikidata