Multi-billion dollar region calls for royalties roads package

Published on 03 September 2024

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The Mayor of Queensland’s biggest resource region has called for all political parties to commit to over half a billion dollars to address the critical state of roads that drive royalties.

As the 2024 state election looms, Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the necessity of safe roads are critical for the continued economic success of the region.

"Without safe, fit-for-purpose roads for our communities and industry, the Isaac region cannot continue to deliver billions in royalties for the state and national economies,” Mayor Vea Vea said. “Many roads across our region need complete upgrades, which will cost hundreds of millions of dollars.”

Mayor Vea Vea said the pressing issues facing the region's roads are that many were not built to accommodate the current volume and size of vehicles.

"When you are looking after 4500 kilometres of road and repairs start at more than $2 million, there is no way to keep up with the demands on the road network, that is why we need more funding,” Mayor Vea Vea said. “While we allocate 60% of our Council budget to road repairs, we need a consistent injection of state funds to maintain our roads. There are sections of roads that are in a critical state and need urgent attention to become fit-for-purpose. Our Royalties Road Package is ready to roll and will help restore the confidence we need. Our call for action is clear: the future of the Isaac region's roads — and its significant contributions to the state's economy — depends on decisive and committed investment from all political parties.”

Critical road priorities include:

  •  $65 million to widen and strengthen 32km of Golden Mile Road.
  •  $241 million to widen and strengthen 71km of Dysart Middlemount Road
  •  $135 million to pave, repair, and strengthen 69km of Peak Downs Mine Road and Saraji Road.
  •  $102 million to widen and strengthen 30km on Peak Downs Highway between Clermont and
  • Moranbah.
  •  $25 million to widen and strengthen 16km of Moranbah Access Road.
  •  $10 million to widen and strengthen 2.8km of Dysart Bypass Road.
  •  $12 million to widen and strengthen 3.5km of Tieri Road.

Visit https://www.isaac.qld.gov.au/Your-Council/Projects-Priorities-Partnerships/Advocacy for more information.

 

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