SEQ City Deal could be struck by February as stalemate broken

A stalemate between state and federal governments could be broken by next month, opening up a pipeline of projects.

A stalemate over South East Queensland’s landmark City Deal could be broken as early as next month with stakeholders demanding a deal is struck before the federal election campaign begins.

The South East Queensland Leadership Group this month met to progress negotiation of the City Deal – an agreement to commit three levels of government to backing a 20-year pipeline of infrastructure projects – which is already almost one-and-a-half years behind schedule.

A worsening feud between the State and Federal governments, including allegations from State Development Minister Steven Miles that Queenslanders were being short-changed, has created a stalemate.

The Courier-Mail understands stakeholders are now pushing for the City Deal to be finalised before campaigning starts for the federal election, which is expected to be held in May.

A deal could be signed as early as February.

A communique released by federal Cities Minister Paul Fletcher, Mr Miles and Council of Mayors SEQ chair and Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner following this month’s meeting noted there were issues that needed resolution before the deal could be finalised.

They have agreed to meet again next month.

Mr Fletcher said the City Deal would transform the South East Queensland region during its Olympic decade.

The City Deal will deliver billions in infrastructure to the southeast.

“The Morrison Government remains committed to delivering a city deal for the people of SEQ, to generate local jobs and support this fast-growing region for decades to come,” he said.

Mr Fletcher last month accused the state government of failing to constructively engage and instead “dither and delay while playing political games”.

Mr Miles this week said co-operation between all levels of government would ensure the region has the necessary infrastructure as the population increases.

“We have seen a recent surge in people looking to call SEQ home, and by 2041, the region is set to grow to 5.4 million residents,” he said.

“The City Deal will be instrumental in increasing liveability and fast-tracking the creation of jobs across the region.”

Cr Schrinner said connectivity was the key to maintaining a prosperous and liveable region.

“As we grow as a region, it’s imperative that transport systems meet our need to reduce congestion and enable better access to jobs, services, and recreation for residents and visitors,” he said.

“The City Deal will work to ensure the SEQ communities are connected as well as unlocking new economic development corridors in fast growing subregions.”