REDLANDS MP Kim Richards wants Redland City Council to apply for a share of $22 million in state government funding for infrastructure planning, like getting the Weinam Creek ferry terminal redevelopment under way.
Ms Richards said council should try to capitalise on phase two of the Maturing the Infrastructure Pipeline Program by applying for funding.
This could move forward projects like Weinam Creek and the Mount Cotton Sports and Recreation Precinct.
“This next release of the program supports local governments by funding strategic planning, the preparation of business cases and the detailed design of their local infrastructure projects,” Ms Richards said.
“Assisting local governments like Redlands ... to move their infrastructure projects forward and closer to being shovel-ready is vital for stimulating the economy and creating jobs in the Redlands community.
“Our government is enabling councils to build capability and develop projects through to the next stages of the infrastructure pipeline, so I am urging … council to make the most of this opportunity.”
Mayor Karen Williams said Ms Richards had contacted her about the funding opportunity, as had Development Minister Cameron Dick.
She said staff were looking at what projects might fit into the funding.
“Until we have looked at the funding criteria we won’t know which projects we can apply for but we will certainly be throwing our hat in the ring for as many as possible,” she said.
Ms Richards said the program also helped to ensure the right infrastructure was built at the right time.
“Making informed investment decisions early on contributes to the long-term financial sustainability of Queensland’s local governments,” Ms Richards said.
Applications opened on Monday and close on Monday April 9.
