Council assisting DriveIT to put the project in the driver’s seat for funding
Date published: 9 April 2019
Townsville City Council is providing expert assistance to DriveIT to help put the driver education and motorsport precinct in pole position for Federal and State funding.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said Council’s expert staff – in collaboration with local firm AEC Group – were working with DriveIT to update its business case to ensure the project had the best possible chance of securing Federal and State funds.
“Council understands the benefits – both social and economic – this project will bring to our city and region and that’s why we are supporting it so strongly,” Cr Hill said.
“Expert Council staff have reviewed and analysed the project and completed an updated business case to ensure DriveIT is in pole position for Federal and State funding.
“A Federal Election is just around the corner and we want this project to be a winner when it comes to funding.”
DriveIT director Pat Driscoll said the updated business case will increase the project’s chances of securing federal funding during the upcoming election.
“We want to get funding commitments from all sides of politics during this federal election campaign,” Mr Driscoll said.
“The project received $5 million in federal funding in late 2017, but the updated business case will help lobby for further funds.
“DriveIT isn’t just for motorsport enthusiasts, this project will also improve road safety and boost the economy.
“Not only will the project create a significant amount of jobs during construction, it will also provide 142 direct and indirect long-term jobs for Townsville locals when the facility is fully operational.”
Planning and Development Committee Chair Deputy Mayor Les Walker said the extra support provided to DriveIT comes after Council approved the project’s development application last month.
“There’s a lot of momentum building for this project and Council is continuing its support,” Cr Walker said.
“Council has already committed to providing the land for the project near Woodstock because we know this facility will help drive our economy while also playing an important role to improve safety on our roads.
“Importantly, this facility has the potential to work in conjunction with the new lithium-ion battery plant – both near Woodstock – to create an important economic precinct for our community.”
