‘Long, hard lobbying’ pays off for Wakefield
Published 30th August 2018
| 30 August 2018 |
$90 million Federal and State commitment towards a significant project to mend transport woes in Port Wakefield.
Wakefield Regional Council Mayor Rodney Reid has praised today’s $90 million Federal and State commitment towards a significant project to mend transport woes in Port Wakefield.
“Council has lobbied long and hard over many years for a dual-lane carriageway through Port Wakefield and a fix for the intersection of the Copper Coast and Augusta highways, just to the north of the town,” Mayor Reid said.
“This is great news and a win for our region.
“We are looking forward to seeing the project take shape, and also working with all levels of Government to deliver critical infrastructure which will facilitate continuous economic growth for our area.
"We are extremely pleased the State and Federal Governments have acknowledged the issues that Port Wakefield and tourists to the Yorke Peninsula face.”
Mayor Reid thanked the other members of the Yorke Peninsula Alliance of Councils – Barunga West, Yorke Peninsula District and Copper Coast – and the Legatus Group of 15 councils for their tireless support for this critical piece of infrastructure that serves the Yorke Peninsula, Copper Coast, Eyre Peninsula, Upper Spencer Gulf, Flinders, Far North, WA and NT.
“I’m also grateful for the many Wakefield Regional Council employees who, over many years, have worked with government departments and the community to develop ideas and support planning.
“Of course, I’d also like to thank Federal MP Rowan Ramsey who has been a long advocate for this project which affects all of his constituents who travel through Port Wakefield, even though the town is not in his seat of Grey, and Narungga MP Fraser Ellis who has quickly understood the importance of the project.”
Mayor Reid also praised the work of Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll, and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack who, in meetings, had both been “extremely understanding and quick to grasp the magnitude of benefits that this project brings to SA”.
“What is important now is for Government to work closely with Council and the Port Wakefield community to get the best outcomes for this great town.
“Port Wakefield is a real gem, with a rich history and plenty of attractions like the historic walking trail around town, the peaceful wharf and tidal swimming pool.
“While holiday makers seeking further destinations will greatly benefit from reduced traffic congestion, the dual carriage way will allow more space than ever before for travellers to pull over, take a break and explore the historic waterfront town.”
Mayor Reid stressed the benefits of a dual carriageway over a bypass around Port Wakefield, saying the bypass would have been three times the price and unlikely to receive funding in the next two decades.
“Upgrading through Port Wakefield instead will bring an estimated $20 million of development in the short term,” he said.
The development is expected to be completed in 2022.