Despite persistent and soaking rain, Property Council Members warmly welcomed the signing of an MOU to deliver Tasmania’s first City Deal for Launceston.
Property Council Executive Director Brian Wightman welcomed the investment in infrastructure.
“The Property Council led the community conversation regarding the centrepiece of the Deal, the relocation of the University of Tasmania from Newnham to Inveresk.
“Education is key to Tasmania’s future, an investment in infrastructure is welcomed, particularly a focus on ensuring higher education is a realistic goal for our young people.
“The relocation project can not begin soon enough,” he said.
Mr Wightman acknowledged the impact of the City Deal together with the recently announced State Government Northern Stimulus Package.
“It has been a very positive week for the North of the State.
“Our Members are optimistic about the construction boom continuing north of Campbell Town,” he said.
Mr Wightman again encouraged the State Government to take a leading role in the infrastructure projects chosen as a part of the $60 million loans scheme for councils.
“The Property Council continues to urge the State Government to clearly flag its intentions regarding the type of infrastructure required and the manner in which it is to delivered.
“We look forward to the involvement of Infrastructure Tasmania to assist in delivering the guidance required,” he said.
The Property Council also recognised the improving nature of the Tasmanian economy supported by Australian construction Insight (ACI) figures released today.
“Tasmanian sits atop the National Ranking Summary for non-residential construction.
“This is clear evidence that there is a construction boom, particularly in Hobart, driven by private investors and off the back of improving confidence,”
“The challenge now is to set Tasmania up for continuous economic growth, and for that to occur we can not continue to avoid structural reform,” he said.