The Hodgman Liberal Government's Northern Economic Stimulus Plan is working to stimulate economic growth, and create new jobs.
So far, 11 councils have applied for loans as part of the Northern Economic Stimulus, with nearly $50 million worth of projects nominated.
Most importantly, work has actually started at sites, and real jobs are being created.
A clear example, is the CH Smith redevelopment, which is the flagship project of the Government’s Northern Economic Stimulus package, where works have started following literally decades of inaction.
The State Government supports investments like this because they create jobs and grow the economy. Late last year, we began working with the developer, Errol Stewart, and the Launceston City Council and as a result there are now shovels in the ground, jobs are being created and a long-dormant part of the city is rising from the ashes. The Hodgman Government provided a $9 million loan to get the project moving as part of the Northern Economic Stimulus.
It should never be forgotten that Labor opposed the Northern Economic Stimulus when we announced it, and according to comments from new Labor Leader Bec White today, they continue to oppose it.
CH Smith is just one of four projects in Launceston that is being supported by the Northern Economic Stimulus.
The projects are –
Cataract Gorge upgrade ($500,000)
St John Street redevelopment ($4.2 million)
Brisbane Street Mall redevelopment ($5.8 million)
CH Smith ($9 million)
The Cataract Gorge upgrade will see improvements to paths, lighting and fencing. It will also see the playground redeveloped to reduce the impact of flooding. Cataract Gorge is a favourite place for locals and a drawcard for visitors and the Government’s investment will see planned upgrades finished two years ahead of schedule with work set to begin within weeks and completed by July this year.
The St John Street redevelopment will see one of Launceston’s busiest streets completely upgraded and the bus stops improved. Work will begin shortly and construction works will begin in July and run for about a year.
The Brisbane Street Mall is one of the largest and most used spaces in the Launceston CBD and an upgrade is long overdue. The pavements will be repaired and other infrastructure such as seating, improved. Design work will start shortly and the redevelopment will be finished in the second half of next year.
Launceston City Council were one of the first councils to put their hand up when we asked councils to bring forward stimulus projects and the projects the Government has approved will provide a massive stimulus for the local economy.