- Grant of over $1.5 million awarded to Tablelands Regional Council towards the Priors Creek Development project.
- Funding will support shared pathways, signage, lighting, shade trees, bike racks and an active transport bridge.
- The grant has been provided through the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Cycle Network Local Government Grants program.
Tablelands Regional Council is undertaking the Priors Creek Development to activate a disused section of state-controlled rail corridor to create a family-orientated mixed use and leisure area in Atherton.
The Queensland Government will provide more than $1.5 million to Tablelands Regional Council to support the development as part of the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Cycle Network Local Government Grants program.
Funding will support delivery of shared pathways, signage, lighting, shade trees, bike racks, and an active transport bridge linking the development with residential areas on the northern side of Priors Creek.
The investment is part of Queensland’s Big Build, with $328 million committed over the next four years towards standalone active transport initiatives, including bikeways, shared paths, and bridges across the state.
Quotes attributable to the Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey:
“I’m excited to hear about Tablelands Regional Council’s Priors Creek Development project to revitalise the heart of Atherton and provide a new space for the community to spend time outdoors and keep active together, including opportunities to provide improved options for people walking and riding in the area.
“The Queensland Government is proud to provide more than $1.5 million in funding to deliver shared pathways, signage, lighting, shade trees and bike racks across the development area.
“The funding will also support construction of an active transport bridge linking the development with residential areas on the northern side of Priors Creek.
“This investment forms part of the $328 million that the Queensland Government has committed towards active transport over the next four years.
“We know that, on average, every dollar we invest in bike infrastructure will return nearly five dollars in economic benefit to Queensland with improved health outcomes, reduced traffic congestion, and lower transport costs.”
Quotes attributable to Tablelands Regional Council Mayor Rod Marti:
“This announcement is great news for the Tablelands Region, the Priors Creek Development and our ongoing commitment to active transport in our region.
“The funding is a critical early instalment that will bolster Council’s commitment to Stage 1 of the Priors Creek Development.
“It’s also fitting the first money to come through is from the Department of Transport and Main Roads given the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail is the backbone of Priors Creek. We look forward to working with the Government as we transform Atherton into a bustling 21st century centre.’
