Barkly MLA blasts govt over infrastructure delivery

BARKLY MLA Steve Edgington has accused the Gunner government of failing to deliver promised infrastructure projects in his electorate

BARKLY MLA Steve Edgington has accused the Gunner government of failing to deliver promised infrastructure projects in his electorate, labelling his regional and remote constituents “the forgotten people of the Northern Territory.”

Mr Edgington addressed parliament late last week to run through a list of grievances, including what he referred to as “the constant closure” of Tennant Creek’s Motor Vehicle Registry.

Mr Edgington said this was a common complaint among constituents, especially for those living in remote areas.

MORE CENTRALIAN NEWS

‘Unacceptable’: Paramedic assaulted by patient in ambulance

Senior Elder remembered as ‘extraordinary woman who lived a remarkable life’

‘A wonderful job’: first COVID-19 vaccine administered in Central Australia

“After travelling for hours to conduct business at the MVR and finding that it is closed has caused a huge amount of anger and frustration among people in Tennant Creek and across the Barkly,” Mr Edgington said.

Infrastructure and Planning Minister Eva Lawler admitted there has been difficulties with staffing the MVR.

“The Department will be advertising for a new staff member in the next couple of weeks to increase the service in the region,” Ms Lawler said.

Ms Lawler also pointed out that customers now have alternative service options via MVR QuickPay and Australia Post.

“Since the middle of last year 44 per cent of customers in Tennant Creek have used alternative options rather than visiting the MVR desk,” Ms Lawler said.

Mr Edgington also quizzed Ms Lawler on the funding committed to a town centre rejuvenation project.

“On 12 July 2018, the Minister for Infrastructure announced $1.45m for Tennant Creek to receive a significant revamp to its town centre, and committed a further $1.5m bringing the total to $2.95m for the Barkly Streetscape project including Paterson Street, Davidson Walk and Peko Road.

“I am not sure where the money is sitting but it simply has not been committed to that project to date.”

HOT NEW DEAL: Read everything for 28 days for just $1

Ms Lawler has since explained that a consultancy tender for the Streetscape is expected to be awarded in early March.

“The Consultancy tender has been structured so that several early packages of work are likely to be available in mid 2021 for expedited procurement and construction,” Ms Lawler said.

Ms Lawler said the main tender for construction will be outlined this August, with a contract awarded by October.

“The major works (will be) well advanced by the end 2021.”