Work on the $243m upgrade of Brighton Bypass and Transport Hub in Tasmania, Australia has started six months ahead of schedule.

The Brighton Transport Hub will provide a modern road-rail interchange and freight distribution hub, while the bypass will reduce the travel time and improve the safety in nearby built-up areas.

Both projects have been awarded to two joint ventures. VEC and Thiess will handle the northern section of the bypass and the John Holland and Hazell Bros partnership will cater to the southern section, including the Brighton Transport Hub.

Tasmanian Premier David Bartlett said: “The investment in these projects will provide a significant stimulus to the Tasmanian construction industry and the Tasmanian economy—especially in the current economic climate.”

The Hub is scheduled to complete by September 2011 and the Bypass by June 2012.