Council welcomes Liberal commitment to key growth infrastructure
The proposal includes support to upgrade wastewater infrastructure as well as assistance to complete Heysen Boulevard between Wellington Road and Paech Road.
Acting Mayor Rowan Voogt said the commitment recognised the important role Mount Barker has played in supporting South Australia’s housing agenda and delivering infrastructure needed to enable growth.
Council has been advocating for $48 million in State Government co-investment toward the wastewater upgrade, representing a portion of the $100+ million infrastructure cost associated with State-led growth planning decisions.
“Mount Barker has accommodated significant housing growth over the past 15 years, and Council has taken on a major role in delivering the infrastructure needed to support that growth,” Mr Voogt said.
“Local households also contribute through SA Water charges that support sewer infrastructure in other growth areas where investment is provided or supported by the State Government. This commitment helps restore a level of balance for Mount Barker ratepayers.”
The proposed $8 million contribution toward upgrading Heysen Boulevard between Wellington Road and Paech Road would also support the safe and efficient movement of traffic through one of the district’s key growth corridors.
Mr Voogt said the commitments demonstrated the importance of partnership between different levels of government to support growing communities.
“As Mount Barker continues to grow, investment in essential infrastructure such as wastewater systems and key road connections is critical to supporting housing supply, community confidence and the long-term sustainability of the district,” he said.
Mr Voogt said Council’s priority remained ensuring that local resources are directed toward community infrastructure.
“Council’s resources should be focused on playgrounds, parks and reserves, sporting fields, local roads, recreation facilities, tennis courts, streetscape upgrades and community spaces,” he said.
