Council Budget includes funding for precinct works
Two exciting intergenerational projects are at the heart of Redland City Council’s $396 million 2022-23 Budget.
In handing down the 2022-2023 Budget, Mayor Karen Williams said Councillors were committed to delivering the projects local families had been asking for.
“This year’s Budget is all about delivering for today while also planning for tomorrow,” Cr Williams said.
“Local families will be the real winners with two key intergenerational projects set to deliver public water parks, sporting fields and plenty of space to enjoy the naturally wonderful Redlands Coast.
“This includes Birkdale Community Precinct (BCP), the largest, most exciting and diverse community project ever delivered for Redlands Coast.
“Council has just finished consultation on the Draft BCP Master Plan and now this Budget allocates $12.7 million to fund the next stage, which includes the restoration of the Willards Farm building.
“When complete, BCP will include a public swimming lagoon, entertainment and innovation Hubs.
“It will be our version of South Bank and Victoria Park all rolled into one and will be enjoyed by generations of Redlanders.
"This year’s Budget also includes an initial $15 million funding towards Stage 1 of the Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct at Mount Cotton, which will give our cycling and BMX stars of tomorrow somewhere to participate in the sports they love.
“The complex multi-stage and multi-year project, being developed in a globally challenging environment, will also give families and visitors a great new location in the south of the city to enjoy the naturally wonderful Redlands Coast with an exciting play experience, picnic areas and trails and bike activity area.
“The play space includes a water play area for cooling down on a hot summer's day, designed to reflect the environmental story of this wonderful site.”
Cr Williams said the Budget, delivered during a time of rising costs, reduced revenue and high inflation, included funding for other major, long-term projects.
“This includes more than $20 million for the duplication of Wellington Street/Panorama Drive to help ease congestion, $5 million for the Weinam Creek project and $4.41 million towards the Southern Moreton Bay Ferry Terminals Upgrade for Lamb and Karragarra Islands,” she said.
Cr Williams said Council was able to commit to these exciting projects because of its strong cash reserves.
“It is important to point out that these projects will be funded through cash reserves as a priority over general rates, reducing the burden on ratepayers," she said.
“So while other councils are being forced to cut projects due to external cost pressures, the money we have saved over previous years means we can deliver the projects residents have been asking us for."
