Redland City Council is considering partnering with the State Government and private sector to fast-track construction of priority state-controlled road infrastructure in the city.
Mayor Karen Williams today received support for her proposal to investigate options for market-led proposals to deliver essential roadworks.
“Redland City is competing directly with other fast-growing SEQ councils for roads and other infrastructure and higher priority has always been given to these growth areas,” she said.
“If we are to lift the Redlands on the priority list we have to provide a business case the State cannot refuse.
“We have an unprecedented opportunity to embrace the market-led proposal option put forward by the Government in its draft State Infrastructure Plan.
“We can leverage off the private and government partnerships, and our strong financial position achieved in this term of council to address the biggest issue articulated by our residents – the need for better State Government roads and transport infrastructure.
“I am convinced this is our best chance to convince the Government of the urgency of the works in the Redlands.
“I have asked Council officers to consider options for market-led proposals and to bring potential projects back to Council in January 2016.”
Councillors supported Cr Williams’ Mayoral Minute: That Council officers consider options for market-led proposals for the delivery of road and transport infrastructure that is the State Government’s responsibility within Redland City, as recognised in the draft Queensland Infrastructure Plan and that a report identifying potential projects be brought back to Council in late-January 2016. The report is to be prepared within current budgets.
Cr Williams said a recent series of Redlands transport forums and feedback from the early meetings of the cross-boundary transport infrastructure working group she established indicated the urgent need to fast-track roads infrastructure.
“We need to address these issues, and we need to do it now. This may be a bold plan, but it is essential,” she said.
“We have been able to build of our cash reserves because of the tough decisions we have made over the past four years and I believe using it to fast-track State roads infrastructure that otherwise could be many years away is the best investment we can make on behalf of our residents.
“Residents tell us congestion is a problem that will only get worse – unless we take decisive action.
“We have to look an innovative ways to address these issues and market-led proposals are the best option – for residents, for Council, for the private sector and for local jobs.
“If we can convince the State of the merit of this plan, we can not only fast-track priority roadworks on State-controlled roads, but we can involve local businesses, provide certainty for them and generate jobs for Redlanders.”