Beloved 'Bike Centre' back better than ever

Published on 11 April 2025

The City of Launceston is excited to announce that online bookings for the new and improved Road Safety Centre will open on Monday ahead of the Easter break.

The completion of this major multi-year redevelopment means families, schools and community groups can enjoy this iconic space, reimagined as a modern, inclusive and engaging venue for entertainment and education.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said the $3.8 million project had been supported by $1 million in Federal funding under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

“The Australian Government's contribution was instrumental in the delivery of a safer and more accessible facility, and we appreciate this significant investment in local infrastructure that really makes a difference,” Mayor Garwood said.

Tasmanian Labor Senator Helen Polley said the completed project showed what could be achieved when tiers of government worked together to get the best outcome for the community.

“The Road Safety Centre - or 'Bike Centre' as it's been known for decades - is a Launceston institution, which is why the Federal Labor Government delivered $1 million to assist with the repairs," Senator Polley said.

"Thousands of children across Northern Tasmania can now use the new and updated Bike Centre once again to have fun, learn about road safety and enjoy time with their friends.” The Road Safety Centre is located inside a former water reservoir dating back to 1894.

After being decommissioned in the 1950s, the site was transformed into a mini road safety village in 1980 by the Launceston Apex Club and the Council, and over the past four decades has hosted thousands of birthday parties and school group visits.

However in 2019 major structural issues were identified and the Centre was closed due to serious safety concerns. "We acknowledge this project has taken longer than initially planned," Mayor Garwood said.

"The structural issues identified during early investigations were far more extensive than we anticipated, and our top priority had to be the long-term safety of the site and everyone who uses it. "We’re incredibly grateful to the Launceston community for your patience and understanding, which has allowed us to deliver a safe and significantly improved facility."

The complex redevelopment was undertaken in four stages:

Stage 1

• Major earthworks and site stabilisation

• Shaping around the historic reservoir tank

• Partial demolition of tank wall

• Construction of a new entrance ramp

• Expanded car park to accommodate more visitors

• Relocation of perimeter fencing for improved access and layout

Stage 2

• Demolition of outdated structures and play equipment

• Construction of a new curved retaining wall using locally made pre-cast concrete blocks

• Installation of new drainage, sewer, stormwater, electrical and communication connections

• New amenities block with accessible toilets and baby changing facilities

• Centralised support room for IT systems and storage

• New lighting and fencing throughout the site

Stages 3 & 4

• Complete mini road network with Launceston street names, roundabouts, traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and safety signage

• Mini pump track and road-themed play equipment

• New site-wide mural celebrating iconic locations and stories by renowned local artist Mel McVee

• Internal weatherproof shelters featuring free BBQ facilities, tables and seating

• Bike repair station, drinking fountain, and wash-up sink

• Power outlets for devices and equipment

• Internal landscaping and the installation of mature trees

• External native gardens

• Programmable lighting in the Centre and car park

• New online booking system and PIN code access to the Centre - no keys or cash required.

Mayor Garwood said he was looking forward to hearing the feedback from the first lucky groups through the door after bookings open on Monday.

“We’ve worked really hard to preserve the charm and spirit of the original Centre while delivering an upgrade that brings it into the future with new inclusive, imaginative and educational features," Mayor Garwood said.

"I believe we’ve delivered something really special — a proudly Launceston space that reflects our values and celebrates who we are as a community."

Road Safety Centre bookings can only be made online via the City of Launceston's website from 8am Monday, April 14.

Multiple bookable session times will be available daily at a cost of $35 per session to be paid at the time of booking.

To learn more and book the Centre (from 8am Monday April 14) visit the Road Safety Centre page.