Page 2575 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 11 August 2015

Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video


It is why there has also been funding provided in the budget to upgrade local playgrounds and why there is a range of practical infrastructure improvements occurring particularly in the Tuggeranong valley and Belconnen in relation to new and widened footpaths, community paths to cater for wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility devices, and the installation of new traffic islands, refuge spots and wheelchair ramps. They are just a couple of the practical examples of the suburban improvements that are part of this year’s budget.

We have also provided dedicated funding for a new major park for the city to be constructed on the West Basin waterfront. That will include new park facilities, playgrounds, barbecue facilities and recreation areas, a purpose-built pavilion on the promenade and new paths and intersections to make it easier for people to access this new public park by walking, riding or driving. It is an investment in our communities, in our suburbs and in our urban parks and places.

MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Ms Porter.

MS PORTER: Chief Minister, how can this focus on urban renewal improve the attractiveness and livability of our city?

MR BARR: The focus of the budget is on building the distinct character of the different local communities around our city whilst also shaping a city-wide environment to reflect a confident, bold and forward-looking city, one that this side of politics and the progressive side of politics is prepared to embrace, ready for the future—

Mr Hanson interjecting—

MADAM SPEAKER: Order, Mr Hanson!

MR BARR: not going back to the 1950s and 1960s where we find the Canberra Liberals. We have lived through the 50s and 60s. You can stay there, Madam Speaker, and your colleagues but we are happy to move into the future.

That is why this budget ensures 89 local shopping centres will see improved maintenance—a $2 million revamp to public spaces, particularly in the south of Canberra, including new pedestrian paths and landscaping at Erindale and at the Weston group centre; upgrading of street trees, landscaping and widening along Anketell Street in Tuggeranong; and improving designs to include walking and cycling access across Tuggeranong, the inner south and Kambah.

MADAM SPEAKER: Supplementary question, Ms Fitzharris.

MS FITZHARRIS: Minister, what will the $7.75 million additional investment deliver for Canberra suburbs?

MR BARR: I thank Ms Fitzharris for the supplementary and her interest in upgrades to urban amenity, particularly in the Gungahlin area. What this will deliver is more


Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video