29 May 2020
Southern Downs Regional Council is looking to the future with one of its largest ever Capital Works programs identified within its 2020-2021 Draft Budget.
Council has identified $40.8 million to go towards Capital Works in the Draft Budget to maintain and upgrade key infrastructure throughout the region.
Highlights of the Capital Works program include $8 million towards the repairing of road infrastructure damaged by floods, $3 million towards creating a new cell at the Warwick waste facility for future requirements, and a $3.83 million extension of Warwick’s recycled water network.
$17.90 million will be spent on the region’s roads, bridges, drainage and footpaths.
Council will also deliver $360,000 for the construction of a new footpath along Mt Stirling Road in Glen Aplin, $165,000 to upgrade the footpath between Guy Street and Pratten Street in Warwick, $439,748 for the upgrade of Jack Smith Gully road at Freestone, with a number of other projects being delivered to support our region.
Deputy Mayor Ross Bartley said renewing the region’s ageing infrastructure is vital for long-term planning and ensuring the region’s continual growth and prosperity.
“This Draft Budget is about strong financial management and reducing the debt to ensure Council is financially sustainable into the future and to continue to see the region grow and prosper,” Cr Bartley said.
“The Draft Budget is part of a long-term financial strategy to achieve prudent financial sustainability, while realising Council’s vision for the Southern Downs.
“Council is in a much stronger financial position than it was before so we can now spend money on projects that will enhance and improve the liveability of our beautiful region.”
Council will also use significant grants and funding secured from State and Federal Government to commence or complete major projects.
“Investing over $40 million towards maintaining and upgrading the region’s infrastructure, combined with significant grants and funding from State and Federal Government means Council can complete projects that will benefit the entire region and, most importantly, improve water security,” Cr Bartley said.
“These projects benefit our residents, and also help to attract business and investment to the Southern Downs for the long-term.”
These initiatives are just a few of the many other positive projects Council has planned for 2020/21.
Council is also committed to developing the community through the following initiatives:
• Supporting community events
• Provision of funds for the Community Grants Program
• Maintaining community swimming pools
• Better cycle-ways, walking and running paths
For more information on Southern Downs Regional Council’s 2019-20 Budget visit sdrc.qld.gov.au or contact SDRC on 1300 697 372.