Page 2339 - Week 08 - Wednesday, 29 August 2007
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MS MacDONALD: My supplementary question is: how can the measures outlined assist in improving the quality of life in the ACT?
MR HARGREAVES: Thanks, Ms MacDonald, for the supplementary question. Additionally to what I have just outlined, we have provided $10 million as capital upgrade funding for existing infrastructure, including libraries and government-owned properties. Also, additional infrastructure to the tune of $9.5 million committed to the building of a new Tharwa bridge, scheduled to open at the end of 2008. Hang on to your hat, Mr Pratt, because I will be talking about you in the TAMS section of the budget. You will look forward to that, I am sure.
Also, $3.5 million will be invested in the construction of new infrastructure at the Woden Town Centre to integrate residential development with existing retail, public transport and office developments. The upgrade and refurbishment of the National Convention Centre is scheduled to be completed later this year, with a further $18 million rolled over from 2006-07. A further $52 million will be spent on the GDE, scheduled to be completed in June of next year.
The government has introduced every one of the initiatives I have described here today, and a range of others in other portfolio areas, with the fundamental aim of improving the quality of the lives of the people of Canberra. That is why we are the government and they are not. The improvements to our road systems, through capital works and ongoing maintenance programs, make it easier for people to travel around the city. While I realise that such projects may cause inconvenience in the short term, and we thank the public for its patience while these works are conducted, the long-term vision we are working towards is an efficient road system that will provide reasonable access for all people of Canberra. This is ongoing work. As the city expands, so too must this vision and our planning around it. While we respond to the demands of today through our road maintenance program, we are already planning for the future through projects such as the Majura Parkway.
This government will continue to improve our ACTION bus network to make sure that those who cannot drive, or choose not to, are mobile and have equal access to services, recourses and facilities. Our cycle paths offer Canberrans a convenient method of transport and a great way to stay fit and healthy. The ACT has one of the best cycle networks in the country and the world and one I know many people use for practical purposes and for fun.
We live in an increasingly fast-paced society. We are being constantly reminded by groups such as Beyond Blue of the importance of taking time out to relax. What better way to relax and unwind than by enjoying the beauty and sheer opportunity for activity and fun offered by Canberra’s parks and playgrounds? We have some great outdoor attractions in this city—from Kambah Park, in my neck of the woods, to Yerrabi Ponds, Black Mountain Peninsula and many parks and playgrounds around the town. These facilities offer kids and adults alike the opportunity to get out there, get active and really enjoy the outdoors.
Another great way this government is encouraging people to enjoy our beautiful outdoors is through our great cycle paths, as I mentioned. The improvements that I have detailed will make our cycle network even more accessible to Canberrans. I take
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