The LNP has gone one better than the ALP on the Tewantin Bypass, promising to begin work on the ground within its first term if it wins government.
The Opposition has committed $30 million towards duplicating Beckmans Road, connecting Cooroy Noosa Road to Eumundi Noosa Road.
Upgrades to the Cooroy Noosa Road and Beckmans Road intersection as part of stage one were completed in 2022 but there has been no work in earnest since then.
Only $1.4m was committed in this year’s budget to progress planning for the bypass and the independent Member for Noosa, Sandy Bolton, has pressured the state government to fund its completion.
Just before the government entered caretaker mode at the start of this month, Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish announced a further $7.1m in funding for planning and to fast-track a business case.
A statement from the LNP said work would begin on the bypass within the LNP’s first term if it won office at this month’s election.
LNP Leader David Crisafulli said delivering the bypass was part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s Future.
“An LNP government will drive the Tewantin Bypass to become reality, improving traffic flow and reducing travel times for families and tourists,” he said.
“We are committed to building the infrastructure needed for the future of our regions and getting our busy roads flowing again, with our Safer Roads, Better Transport program.
“The Tewantin Bypass has been left idling under Labor, which has failed the people of Noosa by delaying funding for vital road infrastructure.
“This project is an important priority for the Noosa community, and the LNP is ready to hit the gas to get it moving.”
LNP candidate for Noosa Clare Stewart said the bypass would deliver much-needed relief for Noosa families.
“The LNP’s commitment will ensure this project is delivered to support Noosa’s future growth and prosperity,” she said.
“Noosa families have waited long enough. We cannot afford further delays on such an important congestion-busting and safety upgrade.
Mr Mellish has questioned how the LNP will fund their promises, saying their record includes cutting $1.6 billion from the state’s roads budget.
“The LNP also refuse to say how they will fund their big spending but have committed to less debt. That can only mean one thing – cuts,” he said when he announced a funding boost for the bypass project.”
Meanwhile, Ms Bolton said the LNP’s last-minute election commitment fell far short of what was needed.
“I called on the LNP to commit construction funding estimated at over $100 million,” she said.
“The question is: what will $30 million achieve?”
Ms Bolton said she was concerned that last-minute commitments were made on the run.
“An LNP or Labor MP will not hold their own parties to account on election promises, whereas we have and always will,” she said.
“Noosa deserves better than a party line or convenient promises for a party agenda.
“My promise has always been very clear. To serve our community, take forward our priorities, and hold parties to account.”
