Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program

Share Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program on Facebook Share Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program on Twitter Share Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program on Linkedin Email Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program link
Image from fly-through animation video showing how the road will change.

Image from fly-through animation video showing how the road will change.

The Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program is a road duplication project servicing a key Council controlled north-south arterial link in the centre north of Redland City.

On 2 September 2020, Redland City Council approved funding for the first stage of the three stage program.

This program will bring numerous benefits to the people of Redlands Coast including improved journey to work times, decreased peak hour congestion, and increased vehicle, cyclist and pedestrian safety.

The project is also expected to create nearly 70 jobs for Redlands Coast residents and another 70 for other Queenslanders.

The Australian Government will provide $15 million towards intersection upgrades along the route through the Infrastructure Investment Program and the Queensland Government is providing $465,000 through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program 2021-2022.

The three stages of the program include:

  1. Stage 1- Boundary Road to South Street, Thornlands (2020-2024)
  2. Stage 2- South Street to Bay Street, Thornlands/ Cleveland (TBC*)
  3. Stage 3- Bay Street to Russell Street, Cleveland (TBC*)

Stage 1 will involve road duplication along Panorama Drive from Boundary Road to the Wellington Street intersection and on Wellington Street from the Panorama Drive intersection as far as South Street, Thornlands. Intersection upgrades at Ziegenfusz Road/Panorama Drive and Panorama Drive/Wellington Street will deliver greater road capacity and safety benefits.

Minor disruptions are likely to occur as works progress and advance notice will be provided to road users during these times. While disruptions are expected, much of the work will allow for the existing road to continue to carry traffic while the new lanes are constructed on the adjacent road reserve. Safety is a key priority for Council and there may be some reduction in posted speed limits during construction.

Stage 2 will see the road duplication continue along Wellington Street from South Street to Bay Street, and Stage 3 from Bay Street to Russell Street.

* Stage 2 and Stage 3 works are subject to future Council approval, availability of Federal and State grants and other city-wide capital works priorities.

Image from fly-through animation video showing how the road will change.

The Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road upgrade program is a road duplication project servicing a key Council controlled north-south arterial link in the centre north of Redland City.

On 2 September 2020, Redland City Council approved funding for the first stage of the three stage program.

This program will bring numerous benefits to the people of Redlands Coast including improved journey to work times, decreased peak hour congestion, and increased vehicle, cyclist and pedestrian safety.

The project is also expected to create nearly 70 jobs for Redlands Coast residents and another 70 for other Queenslanders.

The Australian Government will provide $15 million towards intersection upgrades along the route through the Infrastructure Investment Program and the Queensland Government is providing $465,000 through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program 2021-2022.

The three stages of the program include:

  1. Stage 1- Boundary Road to South Street, Thornlands (2020-2024)
  2. Stage 2- South Street to Bay Street, Thornlands/ Cleveland (TBC*)
  3. Stage 3- Bay Street to Russell Street, Cleveland (TBC*)

Stage 1 will involve road duplication along Panorama Drive from Boundary Road to the Wellington Street intersection and on Wellington Street from the Panorama Drive intersection as far as South Street, Thornlands. Intersection upgrades at Ziegenfusz Road/Panorama Drive and Panorama Drive/Wellington Street will deliver greater road capacity and safety benefits.

Minor disruptions are likely to occur as works progress and advance notice will be provided to road users during these times. While disruptions are expected, much of the work will allow for the existing road to continue to carry traffic while the new lanes are constructed on the adjacent road reserve. Safety is a key priority for Council and there may be some reduction in posted speed limits during construction.

Stage 2 will see the road duplication continue along Wellington Street from South Street to Bay Street, and Stage 3 from Bay Street to Russell Street.

* Stage 2 and Stage 3 works are subject to future Council approval, availability of Federal and State grants and other city-wide capital works priorities.

  • Update - safety first

    Share Update - safety first on Facebook Share Update - safety first on Twitter Share Update - safety first on Linkedin Email Update - safety first link

    Pedestrians have been restricted from using a section of roadside concrete just north of the Panorama Drive/Ziegenfusz Road intersection as a pathway for safety reasons.

    This section of concrete verge was laid to enable maintenance access and to protect underground assets and was not designed for pedestrian use.

    A wide shared pedestrian and cycle pathway on the other side of the road extends the full length of the road upgrade and has been purposefully designed to standard to help ensure the safety of all road users.

    Council recognises the community’s desire for pedestrian access to this area and is actively investigating whether a safe solution can be implemented.

    Signage will be installed on fencing at either end of the concrete verge to assist with community understanding of the safety risk.

  • October 2024 update - we've turned two lanes into four!

    Share October 2024 update - we've turned two lanes into four! on Facebook Share October 2024 update - we've turned two lanes into four! on Twitter Share October 2024 update - we've turned two lanes into four! on Linkedin Email October 2024 update - we've turned two lanes into four! link
    supporting image

    A significant milestone has been achieved on the $57.4 million, 2.3km Wellington Street/Panorama Drive road upgrade – Stage 1, with all four vehicle lanes + bike and pedestrian pathways now open.

    Minor finishing works including defect rectifications will continue for up to three months, so workers will still be present with localised traffic management measures in place to ensure a safe workplace.

    Road users are encouraged to take care as they adjust to the new conditions, observing speed limits and any temporary traffic management measures that are in place as works are closed out.

    Check out our new video to see the latest drone footage – the road is looking smooooth!

    Stage 1 of the Wellington Street/Panorama Drive road upgrade project has been delivered by Redland City Council with support from the Australian Government ($15 million) through the Infrastructure Investment Program and the Queensland Government ($500,000) through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

  • Council delivers $444 million Budget with sharp focus on value for money

    Share Council delivers $444 million Budget with sharp focus on value for money on Facebook Share Council delivers $444 million Budget with sharp focus on value for money on Twitter Share Council delivers $444 million Budget with sharp focus on value for money on Linkedin Email Council delivers $444 million Budget with sharp focus on value for money link

    Redland City Council has unveiled a $444 million budget for the 2024-2025 financial year that focusses on ensuring ratepayers receive value for their money while keeping increases to rates and charges to a minimum.

    Mayor Jos Mitchell said this year’s Council budget made a significant investment in projects and services for the community.

    “From investments in infrastructure and parks to social and cultural programs, every budget allocation has been carefully considered by councillors to foster our local economy and enhance our city’s liveability,” she said.

    “Since being elected as Mayor just over two months ago, I’ve been focusing on seeking information to ensure the annual budget delivers projects that reflected responsible spending.

    “In preparing this year’s budget, which began development in November 2023, Council’s collective priority has been on providing the community with value for money in these challenging times.”

    The Mayor said despite a range of external cost pressures currently impacting Council’s bottom line, recent median increases to Redland property valuations of more than 31 per cent and a forecast rates increase of 5.97 per cent predicted just 12 months ago, the increase in the minimum general rate had been limited to 5.51 per cent.

    “Ratepayer contributions are vital to the running of our city,” she said.

    “The general rate – the largest portion of the Council rate bill – is used for maintaining more than $3.4 billion in public assets, such as car parks, boat ramps, street lighting, playgrounds and other public amenities.

    “It also helps fund some of our city’s most loved services, including our libraries, galleries, Redland Performing Arts Centre and IndigiScapes.

    “Council recognises the cost-of-living pressures faced by the community and has adopted a $1.47 million operating deficit to offset the minimum general rate.”

    Further measures to restrict the increase in the minimum general rate included building more than $13 million in cost-saving efficiencies into the Budget this year.

    If not for Council’s commitment to finding savings, driving efficiencies and prioritising investment in value-for-money projects, the rate increase would have been significantly higher.

    Council completed its second annual expenditure review this year to identify areas where it could save the community money and reduce the amount of revenue it needed to raise through rates to cover costs.

    An example of where this has been achieved is through improvements to Council’s procurement practices, which is estimated to have saved the organisation about $2 million over the past financial year alone.

    A further $11 million in savings were able to be built into the Budget through identified efficiencies in operating costs while still maintaining high service levels to the community.

    Council has adopted a $118.3 million capital investment program for the financial year that includes $52.57 million for road and infrastructure projects.

    “This makes up almost half of Council’s total capital spend for the financial year and will ensure our city is able to keep pace with population growth now and into the future,” the Mayor said.

    “The funding put towards roads includes a $3 million package for green sealing works on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, taking the total investment in this program to well in excess of $22 million since 2016.

    “Council has also set aside $6.92 million for the continuation of upgrades to Wellington Street/Panorama Drive at Thornlands.”

    In a big boost for lovers of the arts, Council has budgeted $3 million for refurbishment works at the Redland Performing Arts Centre in Cleveland.

    Other infrastructure investment highlights include $5.65 million for the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area program, $7.62 million for the Redlands Coast Sport and Recreation Precinct at Mount Cotton and $1.04 million for renewal works at the Cleveland Library building.

    A further $6 million has been allocated to the Digital Transformation Program that will enable Council to continue the multi-year rollout of improvements to its suite of digital services.

    This investment will continue to deliver benefits to the community and Council through the modernisation of Council’s systems and processes to support better, faster and more responsive ways to interact with Council information and services, to enhance cyber resilience and data protection measures, and support productivity and efficiency improvements to the way the organisation plans and delivers its services.

    “Each Budget is a reflection of the legacy and economic environment in which it is adopted,” the Mayor said.

    “Council had to consider its financial position, the rising costs of goods and services, priority projects and the cost-of-living challenges impacting the community.

    “After many hours spent in Budget development workshops, meetings and briefings, Council has settled on a $118.3 million capital expenditure program that represents a significant investment in our lifestyle, our city’s future, our natural environment and, most importantly, our community.”

    The 2024–2025 budget at a glance:

    • $444 million investment in Redlands Coast
    • An increase in general rates revenue of 5.51 per cent, or about $1.49, for a category 1a, owner-occupied property with a valuation equal to the median valuation, excluding separate charges, utilities and State Government charges
    • Small budgeted operating deficit of $1.47 million
    • Capital expenditure program of $118.3 million
    • Total pensioner rebates of almost $3.3 million, with rates rebates of $335.00 per year for a full pensioner or $167.50 for a part-pensioner.

    Capital expenditure program at a glance:

    • $31.86 million for water, waste and wastewater projects
    • $29.57 million for road reseal, reconstruction and upgrade projects
    • $23.00 million for infrastructure projects such as transport, buildings and stormwater
    • $17.69 million for parks, open space and conservation
    • $7.14 million for other capital works projects
    • $4.49 million for marine and foreshore projects, including canal and breakwater works
    • $4.54 million for community and cultural development

    Visit the Redland City Council website at redland.qld.gov.au/budget for more budget information.

    Redland City Council provides a suite of services to 166,873 residents and more than 63,000 residential households across Redlands Coast. Our naturally wonderful city on Quandamooka Country is home to more than 335 kilometres of coastline, six island communities and 12 mainland suburbs.

  • Future building Redlands Coast involves fiscal fairness across generations

    Share Future building Redlands Coast involves fiscal fairness across generations on Facebook Share Future building Redlands Coast involves fiscal fairness across generations on Twitter Share Future building Redlands Coast involves fiscal fairness across generations on Linkedin Email Future building Redlands Coast involves fiscal fairness across generations link

    Redland City Council’s strong financial position and sound credit rating has enabled it to consider a variety of long-term funding options to deliver new infrastructure.

    Prudent and equitable investment in assets on Redlands Coast is allowing Council to bring forward plans for new infrastructure and provide the community with assets and services in an equitable manner.

    While Council strives to keep borrowings as low as possible, certain projects are financed through borrowings to ensure costs of long-life assets are distributed equitably to those who benefit from those assets, now and into the future.

    It effectively means that future generations of ratepayers who will directly benefit from the Council-owned infrastructure – contribute to the cost of its creation, rather than this burden falling solely on current ratepayers at the time of the infrastructure’s purchase or construction.

    A Council spokesperson said responsible financial stewardship has resulted in Council having low levels of debt on its balance sheet and that it was sensible to use debt in this way.

    “This is how we ensure future generations share the costs of infrastructure that will benefit them,” the spokesperson said.

    “It is a form of ‘fiscal fairness’ and another way in which Council is working to maintain its strong financial position.

    “This year’s Budget engagement sessions held with Councillors have been extensive to ensure the organisation is as fiscally efficient as possible, while continuing to deliver the multitude of high-standard services and facilities that keep this city ticking.”

    The annual investment by Council in infrastructure is substantial and represents a major component of the budget.

    As an example, the largest single commitment in last year’s $430 million Budget was $40.5 million – almost a tenth of the entire Budget – for continued works on the Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road duplication project at Thornlands.

    Further infrastructure investment came in at $33.85 million which included progressing intergenerational projects as outlined in Our Future Redlands – A Corporate Plan to 2026 and Beyond.

    Part of these funds went towards works at the Weinam Creek hub at Redland Bay and for specific projects such as the Willards Farm restoration works at Birkdale Community Precinct.

    These two precincts are defining catalyst projects for the city that Council has committed to, and which will bring significant benefits to the Redlands Coast community well into the future.

    Council’s Financial Strategy 2023-2033, its framework for financial sustainability, outlines that key intergenerational infrastructure should be financed in a way “which allows any significant financial burden to be spread over a number of years and not impact adversely on current or future ratepayers”.

    Council is currently in the process of finalising its capital works program for the 2024-25 financial year, in preparation for Council’s Special Budget Meeting on Thursday 27 June 2024.

    Redland City Council provides a suite of services to 166,873 residents and more than 63,000 residential households across Redlands Coast. Our naturally wonderful city on Quandamooka Country is home to more than 335 kilometres of coastline, six island communities and 12 mainland suburbs.

  • Delivering for our community – Council and infrastructure industry come together on Redlands Coast

    Share Delivering for our community – Council and infrastructure industry come together on Redlands Coast on Facebook Share Delivering for our community – Council and infrastructure industry come together on Redlands Coast on Twitter Share Delivering for our community – Council and infrastructure industry come together on Redlands Coast on Linkedin Email Delivering for our community – Council and infrastructure industry come together on Redlands Coast link
    supporting image

    In showcasing its dedication to advancing project delivery on Redlands Coast, Redland City Council recently hosted its second annual briefing for infrastructure industry professionals.

    Against a backdrop of Council achieving a record year for project delivery, 160 industry representatives attended the briefing at Alexandra Hills – some from as far away as Victoria.

    Mayor Jos Mitchell said key Council officers took to the floor with information about Council’s procurement and tendering processes, and the best ways of working with the organisation to help deliver important infrastructure for the Redlands Coast community.

    “The event also delivered a successful networking opportunity for the many planners, designers, asset managers, project managers and others who attended,” she said.

    “It was great to have so many industry professionals engaging with Council to get a better idea of how to work with us and what our expectations are.

    “The briefing also gave Council officers the opportunity to hear from the industry about their needs and processes, and how we as a local government can best work with them.

    “With the infrastructure market tight and the costs of project delivery so challenged at present, events such as this, where Council and industry come together to see how we can all best deliver for our community, are vital.

    “I was recently advised that Council’s inaugural infrastructure industry briefing in 2023 was a great success that set Council up for a year of delivering more projects in our city than in any other financial year.”

    The Mayor said these projects included a more than $40 million investment in the Wellington Street/Panorama Road upgrade.

    “This work is improving conditions for motorists by turning what was two very busy lanes into four,” she said.

    “This is an outstanding result for our community, and events such as these industry briefings only help to forge and strengthen relationships with industry professionals in this highly competitive market.”

    Other projects include the ongoing restoration of heritage-listed buildings at Willards Farm in Birkdale, citywide footpath and asphalt programs, island road sealing, multiple park upgrades across the city, and more.

    Redland City Council provides a suite of services to 166,873 residents and more than 63,000 residential households across Redlands Coast. Our naturally wonderful city on Quandamooka Country is home to more than 335 kilometres of coastline, six island communities and 12 mainland suburbs.

  • Lights on for Christmas as road upgrade reaches major milestone

    Share Lights on for Christmas as road upgrade reaches major milestone on Facebook Share Lights on for Christmas as road upgrade reaches major milestone on Twitter Share Lights on for Christmas as road upgrade reaches major milestone on Linkedin Email Lights on for Christmas as road upgrade reaches major milestone link

    The new traffic lights at the intersection of Wellington Street and Panorama Drive in Thornlands are on in time for Christmas, with the road upgrade project reaching the major milestone right on schedule.

    Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said seeing the new intersection in action was a fabulous end to a highly productive year for the Wellington Street / Panorama Drive Road Upgrade project.

    “It is great to see this new intersection with traffic lights, and lanes between South Street and the new intersection, operational in time for Christmas,” Cr Williams said.

    “Seeing the progress of the road upgrade first-hand and considering the amount of work achieved in only 10 months is very impressive.

    “Works are now more than 56 percent complete, with more than 3400m2 of shared cycling/pedestrian pathway and 1294m2 of concrete median constructed, and more than 17,000 tonnes of asphalt laid.

    “It is really pleasing to see our city delivering vital infrastructure that will support Redlands Coast for years to come.”

    Division 3 Councillor Paul Golle said having four lanes along this stretch of road will make a real difference to people’s daily lives.

    “For all Redlanders, but especially perhaps those who are part of the growing population in the south of our city, this road will bring numerous benefits,” Cr Golle said.

    “Improving road safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians is the project’s key driver, but the upgrade is also expected to alleviate peak-hour congestion, improve work and school commute times, and improve environmental outcomes.

    “Turning two lanes into four along this stretch of road will make a real difference.”

    Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie said works would pause over the Christmas period before recommencing in the new year.

    “Workers on this important road upgrade will take a well-earned rest over the Christmas break, with works shutting down at close of business on 22 December 2023 and recommencing on Monday, 8 January 2024,” Cr McKenzie said.

    “During the shutdown period, bollards and temporary line marking will be in place to direct motorists on to the altered road sections, with speed limits signposted.

    “When work starts again on 8 January 2024, the focus will turn to turfing and landscaping to finish off the newly opened sections of road.”

    Motorists are encouraged at all times to drive to conditions, with caution, while respecting the speed limit.

    The Wellington Street / Panorama Drive Road Upgrade project is being delivered by Redland City Council. The project is supported by the Australian Government ($15 million) through the Infrastructure Investment Program and the Queensland Government ($500,000) through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

  • Boost for massive road duplication project

    Share Boost for massive road duplication project on Facebook Share Boost for massive road duplication project on Twitter Share Boost for massive road duplication project on Linkedin Email Boost for massive road duplication project link

    The next section of works on the Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road duplication project at Thornlands has been allocated $40.5 million as the largest single commitment in the Redland City Council Budget for 2023-2024.

    Mayor Karen Williams said the $430 million community Budget included a targeted and sensible capital expenditure program, valued at more than $135.7 million.

    “More than half of Council’s capital spend for 2023-2024 will go towards roads and infrastructure, including key intergenerational projects that will bring significant benefits to our community well into the future,” Cr Williams said.

    “Of the $53.37 million provided in the capital spend for transport, roads and traffic projects, $40.5 million has been set aside for the next step in delivering this city-defining road duplication project.

    “Starting at the Boundary Road intersection with Panorama Drive at Thornlands, this Budget allocation will largely complete the first stage through to South Street.”

    The next largest road project funded in the Budget is $5.48 million for an upgrade to Double Jump Road, Victoria Point.

    Cr Williams said the infrastructure expenditure included progressing catalyst projects as outlined in Our Future Redlands – A Corporate Plan to 2026 and Beyond.

    “In future-building for our city, the Budget provides $33.85 million for infrastructure projects, with $9.92 million allocated to fund the next stage of the exciting Birkdale Community Precinct, including restoration of the historic Willards Farm,” she said.

    “A further $8.61 million will go towards the continued redevelopment of the Weinam Creek hub at Redland Bay, which will become a real focal point for the southern Redlands Coast.”

    For more information, see Council’s 2023-2024 Budget webpage.

  • Work starts on major road duplication

    Share Work starts on major road duplication on Facebook Share Work starts on major road duplication on Twitter Share Work starts on major road duplication on Linkedin Email Work starts on major road duplication link

    Work has started on stage one of the Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road duplication from Thornlands to Cleveland.

    Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the upgrade would bring many benefits, including improved traffic flow, improved environmental outcomes, and reduced vehicle operating costs for motorists.

    “Thousands of Redlands Coast motorists and other road users will benefit from this road upgrade, and it is encouraging to see the collaborative support from all levels of government to get the project started,” Cr Williams said.

    “The improvements here will make a difference to people’s daily lives, with a shorter journey to work for many, improved safety, and a decrease in peak-hour congestion that will see an associated environmental benefit.

    “Quicker journeys and less time sitting in congested traffic will, I’m sure, be welcomed by many.”

    Division 3 Councillor Paul Golle said pre-construction site works had been underway since early 2022, paving the way for the main body of work to get started.

    “The benefits from this important project have already commenced, with jobs and local businesses involved in the work to prepare the route,” Cr Golle said.

    “All up, around 140 jobs will be created by this project, a welcome boost for the local community in these challenging economic times.”

    Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie said improved safety was a key driver of the project.

    “Improving road safety has been key to the planning of this project and with support from all levels of government this improved roadway will help ensure a safer environment for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, now and into the future,” Cr McKenzie said.

    “We’ve been advised the road will remain open throughout works with limited disruption, ensuring minimal impacts will be experienced by road users and neighbours.”

    From 6 February 2023, road users will see variable messaging signage, noise monitoring equipment, surveying and service investigations along the route before main construction work commences in several weeks’ time.

    To help ensure the safety of other road users and the team building the new road, motorists are urged to drive to conditions and observe any traffic directions.

    Council has contracted Brisbane-based Georgiou Group Pty Ltd to deliver stage one, which is expected to be completed mid-2024.

    This stage will see road duplication along Panorama Drive from Boundary Road to the Wellington Street intersection and on Wellington Street from the Panorama Drive intersection as far as South Street, Thornlands.

    The intersections at Ziegenfusz Road/Panorama Drive and Panorama Drive/Wellington Street will also be upgraded.

    The total project costs for stage one are approximately $57.4 million, which includes about $42 million from Redland City Council, $15 million from the Australian Government through the Infrastructure Investment Program and $465,000 from the Queensland Government through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

  • Council budget funds major long-term projects

    Share Council budget funds major long-term projects on Facebook Share Council budget funds major long-term projects on Twitter Share Council budget funds major long-term projects on Linkedin Email Council budget funds major long-term projects link

    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,” she 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 the Birkdale precinct, the largest, most exciting and diverse community project ever delivered,” she said.

    “Council has just finished consultation on the Draft Master Plan for the Birkdale Community Precinct and now this budget allocates $12.7 million to fund the next stage, which includes the restoration of the Willards Farm building.

    “When complete, this exciting project will include a public swimming lagoon, entertainment and innovation precinct.

    “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.”

    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.

    “So while other Council 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.

    “Council is facing external cost pressures including inflation and supply chain challenges that make it more expensive to do business.

    “The State Government has again increased our bulk water bill by nearly $1 million to $46 million – which represents 11.6 per cent of Council’s total budget.

    “Despite these challenges, Council has chosen to absorb many of these external costs rather than passing them on to ratepayers.

    “The result is about 98 cents a week (or 4.72 per cent) increase to the minimum general rate for an average owner occupier in Redland City.

    “Despite land valuations increasing on average 25 per cent across the city, Council has adjusted the rate in the dollar so as to not pass on these higher land valuations to ratepayers and to keep rate rises well below the Brisbane consumer price index.

    “To keep rates rises as low as possible, for the 2022-23 financial year Council is budgeting an operating deficit of $4.1 million.

    “Had we not included a deficit this year, rates rises would have been higher.

    “Through years of prudent and sound financial management, especially during the financial impacts of COVID-19 public health measures, we are in an enviable position where we can use a deficit to offset pain on ratepayers because we have kept money in the bank.

    2022-23 Budget at a glance:

    • $396 million investment in Redlands Coast
    • The minimum general rate will increase by 4.72 per cent (or 98 cents per week) for an average owner occupier in Redland City
    • Projected operating deficit of $4.1 million
    • Capital expenditure program of $116 million
    • Total pensioner rebates of almost $3.2 million, with rates rebates of $335 a year for a full pensioner or $167.50 for a part-pensioner.

    Capital expenditure program at a glance:

    • $37.64 million for parks, open space and conservation
    • $26.77 million for transport, roads and traffic projects
    • $18.08 million for water, waste and wastewater projects
    • $13.35 million for marine and foreshore projects
    • $10.04 million for infrastructure projects such as transport, buildings and stormwater
    • $8.42 million for other capital works projects
    • $1.46 million for community and cultural development
  • Major road upgrade to bring raft of benefits to Redlands Coast

    Share Major road upgrade to bring raft of benefits to Redlands Coast on Facebook Share Major road upgrade to bring raft of benefits to Redlands Coast on Twitter Share Major road upgrade to bring raft of benefits to Redlands Coast on Linkedin Email Major road upgrade to bring raft of benefits to Redlands Coast link

    Major road upgrade to bring raft of benefits to Redlands Coast

    Redlands Coast road users are set to benefit as work on $30 million Stage 1 of Wellington Street/Panorama Drive upgrade program gets underway.

    Mayor Karen Williams said the program, which is supported by the Australian Government through the Urban Congestion Fund, would help residents get around the city safer and faster.

    “Nobody likes being stuck in traffic and representing one of Council’s largest ever road investments, this project will reduce congestion and help residents get home to their families sooner,” Cr Williams said.

    “The first stage of the project will see the road duplicated from Boundary Road to South Street, with work to begin in the near future and be completed by the end of next year.

    “This project is an example of what can be achieved when different levels of government work together, with the Federal Government providing funding to help make it a reality.”

    Division 3 Councillor Paul Golle said the project would create around 140 jobs for Queenslanders and would bring limited disruption.

    “Knowing the benefits, I’m excited to see the commencement of this road upgrade program and look forward to enjoying the benefits the duplicated road will bring,” Cr Golle said.

    “Redlands Coast residents will directly benefit from the creation of around 70 local jobs related to the project, with a further 70 jobs to be created across Queensland.

    “Foresight from our city planners has allowed space for the road duplication, meaning impacts on neighbouring properties have been limited and works can be carried out with limited disruption to traffic flow.”

    Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie said the project would bring improved safety for all road users.

    “Duplication of this road will see additional shoulders for cyclists, dedicated turning lanes, a pedestrian and cyclist shared path for the full length on the western side of the road, and signalised intersections,” she said.

    “These features will make it easier to use the road and improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.”

    The Wellington Street / Panorama Drive road duplication will be completed over three stages and is estimated to cost a total of $90 million. The stages are:

    • Stage 1: Boundary Road to South Street, Thornlands (early to mid-2022 – late 2023)
    • Stage 2: South Street, Thornlands to Bay Street, Cleveland (2024-2027, to be confirmed subject to funding)
    • Stage 3: Bay Street to Russell Street, Cleveland (2027-2030, to be confirmed subject to funding).

    The project will benefit from Federal Government funding for intersection upgrades at Ziegenfusz Road/Panorama Drive, Panorama Drive/Wellington Street and Wellington Street/Weippin Street.

Page last updated: 25 Oct 2024, 02:41 PM