Consultation on Bundaberg Integrated Transport Strategy now open

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is giving the Bundaberg community the opportunity to shape the future of the city’s transport network, with consultation on the draft Bundaberg Integrated Strategy now open.

The Bundaberg Integrated Transport Strategy has been jointly funded and developed by TMR and the Bundaberg Regional Council (BRC).

The draft Bundaberg Integrated Transport Strategy has 46 infrastructure and non-infrastructure solutions for TMR, BRC and other state agencies to progress around seven key themes to support:

• CBD Revitalisation and Riverside Master Plan especially in the CBD section of Quay Street
• Safe and shady access to Active Transport and Public Transport connectivity in and around the Bundaberg CBD and the surrounding suburbs, focussing on the Bundaberg to Bargara Active Transport Facility for walking and bicycle riding
• Access to the new Bundaberg Hospital
• Residential growth areas
• A safe and resilient transport network that can adapt to a changing climate especially flood evacuation routes
• Freight and general traffic access especially to the Port of Bundaberg and Bundaberg State Development Area
• Freight transport in the Bundaberg region by progressing facilities such as the Gin Gin Rest Area.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg says this consultation period is long overdue.

“The Bundaberg region was ignored under Labor, and the Bundaberg Integrated Transport Strategy is far too important to be delayed any longer,” Mickelberg said.

“The Bundaberg region is growing both in population and economic growth, so we must ensure it has the right transport network to accommodate this.

“We are working with the Bundaberg Regional Council on this strategy, and to ensure the right road and transport infrastructure is delivered.”

Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett said it was refreshing to have the new Minister for Transport and Main Roads release this long-awaited strategy for consultation.

“I encourage everyone to take a look at the strategy and provide their feedback, because local input is critical in getting this right for our region’s future,” he said.

Bundaberg Region Mayor Helen Blackburn says she can not emphasise enough how important it is for the whole community to have input into the Bundaberg Integrated Transport Strategy.

“This is a landmark document that marks a never-before-seen level of collaboration between TMR and BRC for regional transport network planning,” she said.

“This will underpin strategic infrastructure investment over the next two decades and details priority projects including a flood route for North Bundaberg, cycle and footpath between Bundaberg and Bargara and a heavy vehicle rest area in Gin Gin.

“Transport networks aren’t just about getting from A to B they’re about critical infrastructure and services delivery that enables connectivity, safety and lifestyle. Please take the time to have your say.”

Bundaberg community members are able to read the Strategy on TMR’s website at: Bundaberg Integrated Transport Strategy, planning | Department of Transport and Main Roads (tmr.qld.gov.au) and provide their comments by:

• emailing: BITS@tmr.qld.gov.au
• phoning: 1800 335 625 (select Option 2 at the prompt).

Community members have until the end of 2024 to submit their feedback.

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