The LNP has promised $2.5 million in funding for a major flood resilience project, if they are elected in the upcoming State General Election. The proposed project will raise the Curzon Street bridge, which services the Brisbane Markets at Rocklea, providing for increased access in and out of the Markets during major flood events.
Andrew Young, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) welcomed the news as a significant commitment to the fresh produce industry and recognition of the role of the Markets in feeding Queenslanders. "Flood resilience is at the forefront of our business planning. We have invested heavily in site infrastructure to improve flood resilience, and it remains central to our flood preparation and site development projects," said Mr Young.
"Our goal is to ensure the Markets remain operational or can resume operations as quickly as possible in the event of a major flood event by making the Curzon Street bridge more flood resilient, which will further protect the supply chain for fresh produce."
LNP Leader David Crisafulli made the announcement during a visit to the Brisbane Markets today, acknowledging the importance of the Markets to Queensland's supply and chain for fresh produce.
"The Brisbane Markets are the state's most important centre for the distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables, with annual trade exceeding 700 million kilograms of produce valued at more than $2 billion," Mr Crisafulli said.
The project will be funded jointly with Brisbane City Council, under an overhauled Queensland Betterment Fund with investment in building disaster resilience.
For more information:
Ann Robins
Brisbane Markets
Tel: +61 0438 388 111
Email: [email protected]
www.brisbanemarkets.com.au