Queensland Major Contractors Association congratulates Brisbane Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, on his re-election to the mayoralty and called for action to be taken to drive forward the city’s ambitious infrastructure plans.
QMCA CEO, Jon Davies, “QMCA would like to congratulate the Lord Mayor on his victory in Saturday’s poll. We are ready to work with Council to ensure that major initiatives such as Brisbane Metro, Green Bridge Programme and Victoria Park Redevelopment are all progressed to meet the needs of the city’s residents.”
A key priority for the Lord Mayor must be to expedite the appointment of a contractor to deliver Brisbane Metro, the city’s flagship infrastructure project.
“QMCA asks the Lord Mayor, Council and the public service to fast track the appointment of a contractor to deliver Brisbane Metro to provide certainty to industry and progress for residents.”
“Due to disagreements between the State government and Council, Metro is experiencing significant delays in procurement, with three consortia awaiting a decision on who will win the tender to deliver the project.”
“The delay is impacting the consortia involved, who have been strung along for over six months – effectively in limbo – awaiting a decision. During this time, they have incurred high costs at a time when the whole industry is under severe financial pressure.”
“We would ask that a contractor is appointed as soon as possible so that work can start in earnest, people can be employed, and a vital piece of infrastructure can be delivered.”
While appreciative of Council’s changing priorities and budget pressures as a result of the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, QMCA reinforced the need for infrastructure investment to form a crucial part of the Council’s ongoing strategy to support the social and economic well-being of Brisbane.
“It is clear that the Lord Mayor and Council have a vision for our city’s future infrastructure needs. QMCA and our members are ready to work collaboratively to expedite major projects such as the proposed Victoria Park redevelopment and Five Green Bridges Programme to have them shovel ready as soon as possible.”
“By expediting projects, infrastructure investment can be a lever to stimulate long-term economic activity and support small and medium businesses who are an essential part of the supply chain for any major project,” said Mr Davies.
