Page 2803 - Week 09 - Wednesday, 12 August 2015
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development in the ACT. It will also lead to greatly reduced time frames for the development assessment process.
This budget includes $500,000 for the Canberra and urban regional futures program. We are already beginning to see the outcomes of this important program, and it has continued to develop. This is a program that will deliver a platform to share information in our region across a range of issues, including sustainability and climate change, at the same time as strengthening relationships with our neighbours to share experiences and develop collaborative solutions.
Later this year I will finalise my statement of planning intent. I have taken a fresh approach to the development of this statement, including a significant level of consultation across the ACT. These workshops have enabled me to see and hear firsthand the passion and innovative approach that residents have when it comes to the very emotive subject of planning. The statement will guide the key planning priorities over the next three to five years. From my perspective it has been an essential opportunity. I have taken the time to listen to all points of view and ensure that the statement captures our ongoing commitment to development in a vibrant and connected community. I have also sought to ensure that this document will integrate and complement the government’s other strategies, such as transport for Canberra, the planning strategy and the climate change strategy.
This budget provides funding of $340,000 to continue our relationship with the Heart Foundation through our active living program. The work of the Heart Foundation has enhanced the government’s commitment to providing a connected and integrated transport network and encourages healthier transport options. This relationship has already delivered an innovative planning solution which integrates physical activity into everyday life. Good urban planning improves our neighbourhoods and encourages people to walk and cycle for recreation and so-called social interaction and provides options for people to walk, cycle and catch public transport to destinations such as schools, work and shops. As we renew our city and develop new suburbs, we will further embed active living principles into our suburbs and into the lives of residents.
With our continued focus on livability, in May I announced a parking strategy to better manage increasing demand and encourage more residents to utilise public transport. This strategy also allowed for long-stay parking on the fringes of town centres and group centres, which will encourage economic activity by freeing up spaces in commercial areas and in turn increasing access to businesses. Ensuring that we address parking issues is an important aspect of developing an integrated transport network for Canberra.
This government has made a clear commitment to urban renewal, and it is a strong theme throughout this budget. Through our initiative of better connections to better places, the ACT government is further delivering on the groundwork which was identified as part of the master planning process.
Capital works funding associated with the Territory and Municipal Services Directorate in this budget will deliver important links to improve the way in which the
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