MAYOR Karen Williams has told the Infrastructure Association of Queensland that Redlands has more challenges than some other authorities due to its islands and the marine transport infrastructure needed.
Cr Williams took part in an IAQ panel looking at the need for infrastructure across the region.
The function was arranged by the SEQ Council of Mayors to show the importance of councils, state and federal governments working together.
Cr Williams said other key transport infrastructure issues for Redlands, were the Eastern Busway and duplication of Cleveland Rail.
“The council of mayors is always keen to put the needs of the region on the state and federal government’s radar and I took the opportunity to bang the Redlands drum to ensure other levels of government don’t shy away from their responsibilities across our city and the wider south east region,” she said.
Cr Williams said infrastructure upgrades were often seen as an impediment rather than an opportunity.
“Too often these critical projects, whether they are transport, digital connectivity or environmental, are seen as an albatross around government’s neck, when in reality if they are planned and delivered correctly they are a huge opportunity to drive the regional, state and national economy,” she said.
Cr Williams last week returned from a trip to Asia where she inspected infrastructure projects.
“The south east region is playing catch up when it comes to infrastructure,” she said.
“Our growth is outstripping the projects we need to deliver that growth which sees our residents getting stuck in congestion on our roads and frustrated by the on again off again status of key projects.
“During our Asian business delegation we saw some great examples of how, if these projects are planned for years in advance and delivered correctly, they can not only support the growth but attract businesses and drive economic growth.
“Until our state and federal counterparts start thinking long-term we will continue to play catch up."
Cr Williams said duplication of the Cleveland rail line was needed even thought the state government had not committed to it in its South East Queensland regional plan.
“The rail duplication is included in some of the mapping but then the state gives themselves an out by saying that it will only eventuate if the Redlands sees sufficient growth in the future,” she said.
“Anyone who has travelled on a train from Cleveland to the city would know it is at capacity so I would suggest we already have the growth and the need."
