State funds refused for aquatic centre

Gosford Council has been informed that the State Government will not assist with roadworks for the new aquatic centre at Woy Woy.

Minister for Roads Mr Carl Scully wrote to Mayor Cr Robert Bell stating: "The RTA advises me that where new traffic facilities are required to support a proposed development these are considered to be part of the cost of the overall project and are usually the responsibility of the developer."

The RTA had been approached for a grant of $1.1 million to meet the costs of construction and improvements external to the project in Welcome St, Alpha Rd and Blackwall Rd.

These works were separate from the $16.35 million facility construction budget.

A recent council agenda item stated: "Since February, council has been notified that the State Government grant, under the Regional Sports Facility Program, was unsuccessful but a special grant of $200,000 was made to the project.

"However, additional funding of $100,000 has been identified for the cycleway, from Section 94 (CP31), an item within the project budget.

"A grant from the Water and Sewer Directorate of $100,000 has been secured to assist with water use minimisation technologies.

"In addition, there was a saving of $25,000 compared to the estimate for the demolition section of the project.

"The director of engineering operations estimated the cost of road works at $1.1 million.

"If funding is not forthcoming from the RTA, Council will need to consider the inclusion of these works in the 2003-4 and 2004-5 capital works budgets.

"The director of engineering operations is considering options for reporting to council if the RTA funding is refused.

"The Capital Works budget for Engineering Operations in 2003-4 is $4.95 million."

Letter, Council agenda CS.044, June 24