Page 478 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 18 February 2015
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
have led to changes in investment in a variety of different locations in the city; the Kambah group centre at Erindale; and, of course, the master planning work in the Weston Creek group centre. Some of the recent land sales in the Molonglo valley provide the opportunity for significant renewal and investment.
We are seeing, in both Manuka and Kingston, old and new urban renewal. Of course, there is the CBD and adjacent areas. As we move north, there is Dickson. We look at Gungahlin and the significant investment, both public and private, that has occurred in the town centre. And then, in Belconnen, the Belconnen town centre itself has undergone the most significant transformation perhaps of any of the town centres in recent times.
The government continues to work in partnership with organisations like Westfield for associated private sector investment. We have seen it in Belconnen. It is underway in the Woden town centre as well, with the bus interchange upgrade. So right across the city, in a variety of locations—town centres, group centres and local shops—the government is working in partnership with the private sector to see urban renewal in this city.
It is more than just infrastructure. It is also about social capital and opportunities for community level events that are supported by the ACT government. We are continuing that work.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Coe.
MR COE: Chief Minister, what will light rail do for the 94 per cent of Canberrans who are not within walking distance of a tram stop?
MR BARR: It will provide a significant catalyst for the territory economy, employment opportunities, reduce congestion for their particular transit to work, provide opportunities for a better transport system for the city, reduce our overall reliance on the private motor vehicle and ensure that new investment, new jobs and new activity are brought to our city. It will also ensure that this city responds to the contemporary challenges that we face.
The alternative is for Gungahlin residents to be taking one hour, maybe two hours, to commute into the city. If nothing is done, over time it will be an hour for Gungahlin residents to commute and then, as the traffic continues to build up, if there is no new transport infrastructure—
Opposition members interjecting—
MR BARR: That is the Liberal Party’s position: no investment to support the growth of the fastest growing region in our city. That is it—no vision for the future—and that is exactly why this city needs better transport and that is why this government will deliver it.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video