Page 3847 - Week 10 - Thursday, 27 August 2009
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plantings at various sites across the territory and the installation of energy efficient street lights. We also progressed a range of transport initiatives, including the rollout of further priority measures for bus lanes, the replacement of ageing ACTION buses and improvements and upgrades to cycle ways.
Substantial progress has also been made in delivering a number of other key projects to the territory during the last year. Significant transport-related works will continue in 2009-10, including the upgrade of the airport roads precinct, the upgrade of Tharwa bridge, the duplication of Flemington Road, the Cohen Street extension in Belconnen, the extension of Horse Park Drive and the community paths program.
In relation to the Canberra Arboretum and Gardens project, which will result in the development of a major tourism attraction for the territory, to date approximately 11½ thousand trees from around the world have been planted to create the first 20 forests.
Work on ACT Health’s capital asset development plan is progressing. I report to the Assembly from time to time on that project separately to this. This significant project will provide a range of infrastructure projects that are essential to achieving our long-term health objectives.
Another of our landmark projects, the Belconnen Arts Centre, was largely completed during 2008-09 and was opened today, I understand. The inspiring sculptural design of the centre, by Williams Ross Architects, will be a wonderful addition to the Belconnen town centre and Lake Ginninderra foreshore.
Infrastructure is an important input into almost all economic activities. Quality infrastructure is not only integral to meeting service delivery needs; it is also necessary to support growth in the economy and support the economic and social wellbeing of the community.
I have outlined today the 2008-09 outcomes, achievements and progress that this government has made in delivering quality infrastructure to the community. Our record level of expenditure on capital works has made a significant and real contribution to supporting local jobs and the economy.
Over $2 billion in infrastructure-related investment will be made in the territory over the next four years. This will cover a wide range of projects and provide work for a broad range of skills, trades and professions. Such a significant commitment of expenditure will provide employers with confidence to retain resources and plan their business activities moving forward.
The 2009-10 budget again reflects the significant growth in the size of the annual capital works program by this government. This growth represents a challenge for the government and industry and it highlights the need for us to work harder and smarter and closer with the private sector.
As part of our delivery strategy I have implemented a new capital works reporting regime, with a greater level of detail now being captured and reported at a whole-of-government level.
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