The State Government has announced it will fast-track funding for the $225 million Haughton pipeline duplication to ensure long-term water security for Townsville.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer, Jackie Trad, said funding of $160 million, up from $15 million, will now be provided in 2018-19, with a further $55 million to be provided in 2019-20.

“Fast-tracking this funding is the right thing to do for the people of Townsville,” Ms Trad said.

“We can only do this because our plan to responsibly manage the economy to deliver jobs, critical infrastructure and growth across Queensland is paying off.”

The Townsville City Council has set a December 2019 completion date for the project.

“The Palaszczuk Government’s original commitment of $225 million was to be provided over four years,’’ Member for Townsville, Scott Stewart, said.

“Full funding will now be delivered a year earlier and this means less administration and more money out the door sooner.’’

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill thanked the Government for bringing forward funding for the project, which was the council’s number one infrastructure priority.

“Securing this funding will save ratepayers and allows the council to better plan for upcoming infrastructure projects,” Cr Hill said.

“The council is totally committed to delivering the pipeline by December next year, to provide our community with water security.”
IMAGE: Mayor Jenny Hill and Townsville MP Scott Stewart with pipe lengths to be used in the project.