Infrastructure funding to boost jobs, economy in Armidale region

16 Dec 2020

Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the Australian Government has approved $1.43 million in funding for four projects across the Armidale, Guyra and Ebor communities as part of its Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI).

This program is supporting local jobs, businesses and boosting the economy during COVID-19. 

Funding to Armidale Regional Council includes $985,000 for Guyra Community Precinct upgrades featuring a new carpark for improved access to the library, UNE building and community hub. 

The Government will also provide $423,100 for improved security, access, lighting, information and general maintenance at the Armidale Mall; $15,000 for visitor signage in Ebor promoting the various points of interest within Ebor and surrounds and $6,601 to upgrade existing CCTV equipment in Cinders Lane in the Armidale CBD.

Mr Joyce said the extra construction activity will make a big difference for the Armidale region as we continue to build our way out of the pandemic.

“We have fought for this funding and now we see the outcome,” Mr Joyce said.

“Not only will these projects support local jobs, construction businesses and general economic growth, the new projects will deliver a better standard of living for you and your family. 

“Funding must go to places outside the main centres so I’m glad this is being achieved.

“We will work closely with Armidale Regional Council to ensure local projects get underway to support jobs and businesses as soon as possible.” 

Total LRCI funding for Armidale Regional Council was now valued at $3.1 million which included a $1.7 million funding boost in October. 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the projects funded under the Program will improve the quality of life of Australians and have lasting economic and social benefits for local communities. 

“Our funding boost will help communities across Australia accelerate priority projects to get people into jobs and stimulate our economy,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“We know how important our support is to communities who have faced the combined effects of drought, bushfires and now COVID-19, which is why we are backing projects to create employment and business opportunities.”

Armidale Regional Council Mayor Ian Tiley said this latest round of grant assistance, and the projects it will fund, will bring another invaluable boost to the local economy and community.

“The implementation of each project will bring an injection of economic activity which is particularly welcome as this region recovers not only from COVID, but also the recent bushfires and ongoing drought,” Mr Tiley said.

“The projects have also been chosen for the lasting legacies they will provide, enhancing facilities and quality of life for our community.”

In May 2020, the Federal Government also pre-paid $1.3 billion of this year’s Financial Assistance Grant to provide untied funding for all local councils across Australia to spend on local priorities.

(ENDS)
 

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