First North Queensland Regional Plan to supercharge development

The first regional plan for North Queensland will become a reality after all five councils agreed to start work on the blueprint that will supercharge future development across the region.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Jackie Trad will today meet mayors and representatives from the five councils - Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island and Townsville – to kick start work on the plan.

“The North Queensland Regional Plan will establish a vision and direction for the region. It will give the councils and the community a chance to address issues specific to North Queensland and work with the state government to seize opportunities and respond to challenges,” Ms Trad said.

“The regional plan provides the basis for the planning and delivery of infrastructure and services, connects council areas and improves opportunities for economic development and liveability.

“I acknowledge the work the five councils are doing for their communities and the regional plan will build upon this. The development of the plan will be a genuinely collaborative process with councils to ensure the delivery and implementation of specific projects across the region,” Ms Trad said.

“It will be informed by community views and consider local and regional initiatives, highlighting the skills and knowledge held by North Queenslanders.

“The NQRP is an important part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to the North, which also includes a $586 million infrastructure investment this year, supporting support around 1,500 jobs.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo was enthusiastic about the opportunities that could emerge from the NQRP. 

“We are very happy that the State has commenced the process which will have an immeasurable benefit in assisting with planning for the future orderly growth of our region,” Cr Jayo said.

Charters Towers Regional Council Mayor Liz Schmidt said that the NQRP was a chance to harness potential for the benefit of the whole region.

“There are many projects at various stages within the Charters Towers Regional Council area. Some of these will have a benefit for the larger North Queensland Region and we look forward to the opportunity to have these projects identified and included in the Regional Plan,” Cr Schmidt said.

Burdekin Shire Mayor Lyn McLaughlin welcomed the opportunity to conjointly work on the North Queensland Regional Plan.

“Each of the five councils will have their own priorities, but there is a definite need for councils to plan as a region so that each area complements and supports infrastructure throughout the region, I look forward to working with my council colleagues and the State Government in developing a plan that will be to the benefit of everyone living in the North Queensland region,” Cr McLaughlin said.

Locals will be invited to share their ideas during the preparation of a draft plan.

The final North Queensland Regional Plan is expected to be in place by early 2018.

To find out more visit: http://dilgp.qld.gov.au/planning/regional-planning/north-queensland-regional-plan.html

ENDS

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