Multi-million-dollar kerb and channel program to roll out across Ipswich

Roads across Ipswich are set to be revitalised as Ipswich City Council rolls out a $22 million kerb and channel program across the next three years.

As part of the 2021-22 Annual Plan and Budget, to be adopted on Thursday, council will allocate $22 million for the three-year program with around $15 million to be spent in Ipswich’s older and established suburbs.

Mayor Teresa Harding said council’s commitment represents a 69 percent boost compared the previous two years average spend.

“We know our newer areas of Ipswich are growing, but this doesn’t mean our older suburbs get left behind,” Mayor Harding said.

“This commitment represents an incredible investment in our established suburbs to ensure as we grow, the city grows together.”

The following new projects are proposed for roll out in the first 12 months of the program:

• Hill Street (Mary Street to High Street), Blackstone, $845,000
• Springall Street (McGill Street to Charlotte Street), Basin Pocket, $275,000
• Gladstone Road (Ferret Street to William Street West), Sadliers Crossing, $125,000
• Alice Street (William Street to Naomai Street), Blackstone, $100,000

The following rehabilitation projects are also proposed for the initial 12 months:

• Kirton Street (reconstruction kerb and channel both sides including full pavement rehabilitation), Redbank Plains, $480,000
• Trevor Street (replacement of the existing kerb and road pavement, including driveways), Bellbird Park, $400,000
• Doyle Street (reconstruction of kerb and channel both sides including inlet pits), Silkstone, $306,000
• Laurel Street (reconstruction of kerb and channel from Russell Drive to Laurel St, part of sealed road reconstruction), Redbank Plains, $266,000

Mayor Harding added that council’s investment will be followed by swift action in the coming 12 – 36 months.

“Residents have made it clear this is something they are very keen to see, and something they expect as part of living in a modern, growing city.

“I look forward to see this significant investment rolling out to almost 20 locations across Ipswich in the coming months and years.”

Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle, whose notice of motion to council’s March 2021 Ordinary Meeting called for expediated kerb and channel works in Ipswich’s older suburbs, said she was pleased with council’s three-year program.

“I’m delighted that council has committed $15 million to undertake important kerb and channel works across Ipswich’s older, established suburbs,” Cr Doyle said.

“Council has listened and responded to the concerns of residents”.

“I’m looking forward to residents at these locations enjoying improved local streets that look better, drive and ride safer, and have improved stormwater management”.