|
Shire seeks to reallocate funds |
|
|
|
|
Written by Alan Richardson
|
In a bid to fast-track development of eight priority infrastructure projects, the Shire of Roebourne is seeking permission from the WA Government to reallocate $16-million earmarked for the Karratha Leisure and Learning Precinct.
If approved, work on the Bulgarra Sporting Facilities Precinct, Cattrall Park Redevelopment, the Karratha Youth and Families Space and the Roebourne Youth Centre could start as early as June.
The diversion of funds would also pay for initiatives to fight anti-social behavior and help the Shire of Roebourne accommodate its rapidly expanding workforce to service these major projects.
It would not, as recently reported, be put towards health care redevelopment in the Shire of Roebourne.
Shire of Roebourne president Nicole Lockwood was adamant funds were intended to improve public amenity and the Karratha Learning and Leisure Precinct remained the Shire’s “premier” project.
She said the decision to reallocate funds and move on a number of “ready-to-go” projects would provide immediate improvements for local residents.
“This decision in no way diminishes Council’s agreed view that the Karratha Leisure and Learning Precinct is the Shire’s premier project,” Ms Lockwood said.
“The decision to reallocate funds merely reflects the need to provide residents with an increased level of amenity quickly to demonstrate responsiveness to community’s aspiration for improved streetscape amenity, sport facilities and a family and youth space.
“It also gives Council the ability to maintain service levels and manage the escalating day to day requirements of managing these major projects and a growing local government.”
Ms Lockwood said the move would not set-back progress on the $106 million Karratha Leisure and Learning Precinct, which is currently in the design phase.
Full financial commitment is not required until January 2011, giving the Shire of Roebourne 10 months to raise the $56 million it needs to get the project off the ground.
Ms Lockwood said Council was pursuing three funding options, the preferred being,to seek the support of the WA Government to build the facility as a Council managed State asset.
Or if the State Government does not support construction of the facility as a State asset, they then apply for a full commitment under the Royalties for Region scheme.
The third option would involve seeking further funds through the Royalties for Regions Program, other State and Federal funding sources, industry partners and the Shire also contributing.
The Shire of Roebourne is also in the process of applying to the Minister for Regional Development and Lands for $13.1 million for the Baynton West Family Centre and the Bulgarra Community Centre. |
More LOCAL News 