LOCAL MPs and councillors are calling for more effective planning and collaboration between all levels of government to help deliver vital infrastructure projects while ensuring environmental protection remains a top priority.
As the Redlands and Bayside areas experience rapid growth, the pressure to enhance and upgrade infrastructure is mounting.
However, local representatives are emphasising the importance of balancing development with sustainable environmental practices to ensure long-term benefits for communities and ecosystems alike.
Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike said we must build the infrastructure that our growing city needs, while ensuring we preserve our local environment.
“I believe both can be done if managed correctly,” he said.
“Our environment is precious, and the Coalition recognises that we must do what we can to protect our native flora and fauna but note that this can be done by sustainably balancing our economic interests and infrastructure needs.
“If there is no economic activity, there is no ability to fund environmental protection.”
Mr Pike said Labor’s environmental Nature Positive proposals were holding up desperately needed projects in this city, like Redland City Council’s Heinemann Road Sports Precinct Project.
Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta said that preserving and protecting our environment was central to conservative values.
“It is important that we leave our children, and the next generation, with something better than what we inherited,” he said.
“Sadly, Labor has damaged the economy through wasteful spending and the wrong priorities.
“This hampers their ability to invest in critical infrastructure, environmental and social programs that improve the quality of life for Australians.
“My focus is on practical and genuine environmental conservation, and supporting community-driven initiatives to protect our beautiful landscapes.”
State Member for Capalaba Russell Field is advocating for more proactive and streamlined infrastructure projects in the region.
“Leslie Harrison Dam is a critical asset for Capalaba and the Redlands Coast community,” he said.
“It’s an important project to advocate for, that will project legacy benefits for everyone in the region.”
He continues to push for the re-establishment of dam gates, with $500,000 allocated to investigate the feasibility of such a project.
Local councils are also calling for better coordination with state and federal governments to ensure more efficient and environmentally conscious infrastructure development.
Another pressing issue for local government is improving public safety and local facilities while remaining mindful of environmental concerns.
Cr Wendy Boglary, Redland City Council Division 1 representative, raised the importance of protecting natural resources, particularly the city’s aging water and sewerage infrastructure.
“I have stated for a decade I have concerns regarding the ageing infrastructure within our city,” she said.
“Nothing imposes a greater risk or is more vital for the health and safety of Redlands than clean drinking water and sufficient sewerage networks.”
ALP candidate for Bonner Kara Cook said Labor wanted to see nature better protected.
“That’s why we’re investing more than $550 million to better protect threatened plants and animals and tackle the feral animals and weeds killing our native species.
“We’re also investing $200 million in our Urban Rivers and Catchments program investing in more than 100 projects for rivers and waterways in our cities.”
