Hobart steps forward on pedestrian safety

Published on 16 April 2026

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The City of Hobart is continuing to roll out pedestrian improvements across the city, with works started at the De Witt Street and Hampden Road intersection in Battery Point.

The Battery Point project is one of a series of upgrades designed to improve safety, accessibility and comfort for people walking around Hobart, while also helping to calm traffic and enhance the character of neighbourhood streets.

Construction at the De Witt Street–Hampden Road intersection is expected to take approximately six weeks, weather permitting. Work will take place between 7am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

The project includes:

  • installation of raised pedestrian crossings
  • renewal of footpath corners with smoother, more accessible edging

The works are jointly funded by the City of Hobart ($100,000) and the Tasmanian Government ($100,000).

The Battery Point upgrade reflects a growing focus on making everyday walking safer and more attractive across the municipality.

The City has recently completed, or is progressing, a number of other pedestrian-focused projects, including:

  • Haig Street pedestrian improvements ($150,000)
  • Scramble crossing formalisation at Collins Street / Murray Street and Liverpool Street / Murray Street ($522,572)
  • Elizabeth Street footpath widening between Davey Street and Macquarie Street ($120,000)
  • Battery Square / Hampden Road pedestrian improvements ($115,478, grant funded)
  • Edward Street continuous footpath ($175,000)

Looking ahead, major upcoming projects include:

  • Burnett Street Active Transport Connections – $700,000 ($350,000 grant funded)
  • Queens Walk footpath upgrade – $325,000 ($152,000 grant funded)

These projects were also supported by growing evidence linking walkable neighbourhoods with better health, social and economic outcomes.

Traffic management will be in place during construction at De Witt Street and Hampden Road, and some short-term disruptions may occur. The City thanks residents, businesses and visitors for their patience while these improvements are carried out.

Quotes to be attributed to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:

“These improvements are about making it easier and safer for people of all ages and abilities to move around their neighbourhoods on foot.

“By investing in better pedestrian crossings and more accessible footpaths, we’re creating streets that are calmer, safer and more welcoming for the community.

“Research in Tasmania has shown that people living in areas with well-connected, walkable footpath networks walk significantly more each week.

“Improving walkability isn’t just a transport decision – it’s an investment in community health, environmental sustainability and more vibrant local streets.”

Quotes to be attributed to Battery Point Community Association President Charles Morgan:

"Hampden Road is Battery Point’s busiest street. Improvements to pedestrian crossings and footpaths will significantly improve safety and amenity for residents and visitors to the precinct.

“Battery Point is one of the most visited precincts in Tasmania. Upgrading pedestrian crossings and footpaths will significantly improve safety and accessibility for residents and visitors."

Pictured: (left to right) Battery Point Community Association President Charles Morgan and accessibility advocate Dr Ian Broinowski.

 

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