Page 614 - Week 02 - Thursday, 22 February 2018
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
Building an accessible, timely and transparent justice system requires looking at more than just the courts and just the law. It requires us to view the justice system as an integrated element of our community. The government will keep working to find ways and implement ways to ensure that the courts, and our laws, contribute to a safer, stronger and more connected city as a whole.
Tuggeranong—town centre upgrade
MS LAWDER: My question is to the Minister for Transport and City Services. Minister, last year the ACT government undertook stage 1 redevelopment or modernisation at Anketell Street of the paved area—the courtyard or gazebo area—in the middle of the Tuggeranong town centre. The project was criticised at the time for including an unusual and unpopular lighting feature/sculpture. The trees that were originally planted in the area died and had to be replaced. Now it has now become evident that the street furniture that was placed along the street is deteriorating at a rapid pace. Minister, what actions did the government undertake to ensure that the furniture and trees chosen for the area were appropriate?
MS FITZHARRIS: I thank Ms Lawder for the question. I have actually had a range of responses about the upgrades, including from you, Madam Speaker. I know that the upgrades are welcome. There is more work to be done. Certainly, some people criticised them—I know Ms Lawder did—but others liked the particular sculpture that was installed there.
I am not aware of deterioration. I recall potentially one letter that I may have received. I will follow up. It would certainly be the case that TCCS always takes care to select the right landscaping, the right trees and the right shrubs. They also take care to install the right street furniture. One of the key considerations they have is the ongoing maintenance of both landscaping and the street furniture. I will take the question specifics on notice.
MS LAWDER: Minister, who made the decision on what objects were placed in this paved area, and what consultation was undertaken?
MS FITZHARRIS: That was a decision taken in the directorate. I, of course, saw the early plans. I also know that there was reasonably extensive consultation on those works over a number of different phases, including with individuals in the community, with local community groups and with the Hyperdome management staff as well.
MR PARTON: Minister, who paid for the replacement of the trees and potentially the furniture, and how much has it cost for these replacements?
MS FITZHARRIS: If I could clarify with Mr Parton: I am not aware of new furniture being reinstalled. Is that what he is asking?
MR PARTON: The trees specifically.
MS FITZHARRIS: That would be within the budget of that project, I would imagine. If I am incorrect, I will correct the record.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video