Maintaining infrastructure
A vibrant local economy depends on having adequate infrastructure such as roads, telecommunications, water etc. Investment in infrastructure is often seen as an essential public service but it is also an investment in the economic vitality of the community.
Some things that you can do to improve the infrastructure in your community include:
- Contribute to strategic planning about the provision of infrastructure
- Be aware of local state and federal government priorities and approaches to infrastructure development
- Involve the community in developing a case for further infrastructure development
- Mobilise the community to develop or maintain some local facilities
- Consider partnerships such as between government and private enterprise or between local government and community organisations.
Developing local facilities to promote economic vitality
— Monto Business Precinct Revitalisation Strategy —
Monto Shire Council conducted an extensive community consultation program over an 18 month period beginning in 2005 to evaluate where Monto Shire and its community is now, what expectations and aspirations are held by the community and others for the future of the shire, and what actions need to be taken to realise these future goals. The outcome of this consultation was the document Progress Monto.
Among other projects, Progress Monto identified the need for the renewal of the Monto town centre and business precinct as a major kick start for revitalisation of the whole shire. The Business Precinct Revitalisation Strategy aims to:
- Improve pedestrian safety, accessibility and comfort at the same time creating a vibrant village atmosphere.
- Model smart parking and traffic flow designs that will create a safer environment for vehicles and pedestrians.
- Design people spaces that provide areas for community gatherings including shade, shelter, seating and safe playing areas for children, creating a vibrant, living community centre enriching residents and visitors experience and enjoyment of the built and natural environment.
- Include water features with elements of movement and sound — specifically an interpretive river bed — and sculpture/art pieces that explore localised themes of place, people, history and the future.
- Incorporate the proposed Q150 Community Hub and Visitor Centre Project.
- Create a unique Monto identity can then be themed throughout the Shire.
Extra resources
- Funding for telecommunications infrastructure and skills is available through the Commonwealth Government’s $1.1 billion Connect Australia funding program for telecommunications in rural and regional areas.
- The South East Queensland Regional Plan covers 18 councils in the south east corner of the state.
