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Best road to recovery is locally led by Councils

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) has welcomed a Federal Government plan to fast track shovel-ready road projects that will save council jobs and help boost local economies.

LGNSW President Linda Scott said local councils stand ready to carry out road projects that will support local council operations, jobs and businesses.

“Councils can provide locally led community recovery through road projects that are shovel ready and are good to go,” Cr Scott said.

“Local government is best placed in coordinating and managing the construction of this important infrastructure as well as other important services for local communities.

“The best road to recovery for local communities during this crisis is locally led by councils.”

Cr Scott said the Federal Government’s fast-tracked Infrastructure Investment Program would help councils upgrade local roads, bridges, intersections, footpaths and cycleways to improve road safety and efficiency at very critical time.

“Better and safer local roads help make local economies stronger, as well as providing job security at a time when councils are trying desperately to retain council jobs despite the severe impact of COVID-19,” Cr Scott said.

“Councils are perfectly positioned to build local footpaths and cycleways with this funding. These amenities add great value to local communities.

“The Federal Government’s preference is to jointly fund these projects with councils.

“However, it is important to understand council revenues have been significantly reduced and they are limited in what they can contribute.”

Cr Scott said it was critical councils receive adequate funding and resources to coordinate and deliver the goods and services needed as we navigate through, and recover from, natural disasters, whether they be drought, bushfires, floods or the impacts of COVID-19.

“We need Federal and State stimulus funding for projects that will help councils sustain their local economies, keep people in jobs and keep businesses in business,” she said.

“Strong councils, supported by substantial funding and resources, are key to the survival of local communities in these extraordinary times.”