Redland City Council has agreed to a deal that will pave the way for the upgrade of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands ferry terminals.
Mayor Karen Williams said Council had resolved to sign the funding agreement for the upgrades after extensive negotiations with the state Department of Transport and Main Roads and island residents.
“We are now hopeful that the department swiftly does likewise so we can get these desperately needed projects under way,” Cr Williams said.
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Mayor Karen Williams and Councillor for Division 5 Mark Edwards at Russell Island ferry terminal, the first in line for upgrade.
“Council has worked hard and in good faith with the department and the island communities to ensure this project aligns with community expectations and includes commercial and development opportunities.
“It’s an exciting project with huge benefits for Redlands Coast so, having taking it to the stage where it is ready to be signed off, we are keen for that to happen without delay – especially as funding is available through the Passenger Transport Infrastructure Investment Program (PTIIP).”
Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards thanked the community for input over the years which had informed the terminals’ detailed designs.
The project includes upgrading or replacing the terminals – including jetties, gangways and pontoons – on Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra Islands over four years. The plans also include repurposing existing ferry pontoons for recreational uses such as fishing and mooring.
“Thank you especially to everyone who submitted their feedback during the concept design and preliminary design phases,” Cr Edwards said.
“I’m looking forward to construction starting as soon as possible on the Russell Island ferry terminal, which will be the first to undergo an upgrade.
“The SMBI community has waited a long time to see the terminals receive the significant upgrades that they and Council have fought for and which are not just a daily necessity for island residents but vital to Redlands Coast economic future.”
For more information and project updates, please visit Council’s SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade webpage.
