The Queensland Government has fast-tracked $100 million, as part of its $225 million commitment to Townsville’s water security, to keep construction of the Haughton 36.5 kilometre water pipeline moving.
Member for Townsville, Scott Stewart said the $100 million payment (paid last week) would go towards supporting up to 1000 jobs over the life of the project.
“We all know Townsville has been doing it tough and is currently recovering from an unprecedented flooding event. The jobs that flow from the Haughton pipeline are a shot in the arm during the rebuilding period,” Mr Stewart said.
There are more than 400 workers on the pipeline project and the recent mobilisation of the tunnel boring machine will ensure the project continues to progress post the severe flooding event.
“By keeping the money flowing, the Palaszczuk Government is ensuring the project’s progress,” Mr Stewart said.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill also commented that the pipeline is helping to support local businesses and jobs now, and it will ensure the city is able to continue to grow in the future.
“Importantly, Townsville City Council has structured the work packages on the pipeline very deliberately to give local firms the best possible chance of winning work on the project,” she added.
This latest funding follows the first construction instalment of $15 million in August 2018. This follows a previous payment of approximately $10 million in 2017 associated with the Water Smart Package.
The Haughton pipeline is expected to be completed in March 2020.