Stand-off continues between the State and Federal Governments over funding for an M1 upgrade

The stand-off between the State and Federal Governments over M1 funding upgrades continues.

NEWS XMP

THE  Mexican stand-off over an upgrade of the M1 ­continues.

The Federal Government says they are waiting on a submission from the State Labor Government as to why they should pay for 80 per cent of the work, ­rather than the 50-50 split currently offered.

After the Federal Government released a new online tool identifying the M1 as a national freight network, Labor again called for an 80-20 split, similar to other projects such as the second Toowoomba Range crossing and Bruce ­Highway ­upgrade.

Liberal Federal MP for Forde Bert van Manen said the 50-50 offer was “consistent” with previous commitments to the corridor and other “urban road ­projects”.

He claimed no other ­arrangement would be ­possible unless a submission was made.

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“At this time, (Federal ­Infrastructure) Minister (Warren) Truss also advised the Queensland Government that approval for this project will be subject to Queensland providing an updated funding submission,” Mr van Manen said.

“(A submission) which clearly describes the indented scope of works and timing within the available cost estimate of $20 million, and to date, the Queensland Government is yet to formally respond to this offer.

“A roads classification does not automatically determine a funding negotiation between the varying levels of government.”

A spokesman for ­Springwood state Labor MP Mick de Brenni said the Federal Government should take responsibility for an upgrade.

“The Federal Government has again made it clear what the M1 does, and they need to come clean and fund it properly.”