Road repairs begin on Magnetic Island

Disaster reconstruction funding will help Townsville City Council repair a residential road on Magnetic Island that was damaged in last year’s unprecedented monsoon.

These roadworks are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments’ Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Townsville City Council Infrastructure Services Committee chairperson Mark Molachino said Swensen St was the first of several road repairs planned for the island.

“Council maintains these roads, but this DRFA funding will allow us to undertake more significant repairs to make sure the roads are safe and up to modern engineering standards,” Cr Molachino said.

“These roads are used every day by locals, so having them back in tip-top shape will be great for residents as well as for visitors to the island.”

Cr Molachino said crews would spend six weeks working on the Swensen St upgrade, starting this week.

“The road works renewal project will take place between Gifford and Apjohn streets,” he said.

“Pedestrian and car access will be maintained for most of the project but there may be some restrictions during the works.”

Division three representative Ann-Maree Greaney said the works would not only be great for locals but would also make Magnetic Island more appealing for visitors.

“Magnetic Island is one of our biggest tourist hotspots. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic we’re seeing a lot of people head over to Maggie for staycations,” Cr Greaney said.

“It’s important that our island is not only looking great for visitors, but is also easily accessible for anyone wanting to go for a drive or a walk to one of Magnetic Island’s many hiking spots or beaches.”