4 February 2009

Media Release

The Circular Head Council has congratulated the State Government on its decision to invest $23 million in the Tarkine Drive Road while setting aside 653 hectares of forest previously earmarked for logging as a reserve.

Circular Head Mayor Daryl Quilliam said the infrastructure investment would assist to ensure a vibrant tourism-based economy through the difficult economic times ahead.

"Economic modeling shows we can expect the road to increase spending by $55 million per year, with 450 long term jobs flowing from the construction of the road itself.

"It is an ideal investment that will provide significant jobs in the short term and build on our assets in the long term.

"That it has also resulted in 653 hectares of additional reserved forest is especially pleasing."

Mayor Quilliam said the 5.4kms of new roadworks in particular would allow tourists to access the beauty of area.

"The Tarkine is a hugely significant area from an environmental standpoint and it is essential that we make it accessible to ensure it is appreciated and cared for into the future.

"Importantly, the road will create links to Wynyard, Burnie and the West Coast - areas which will all benefit from increased tourist access."

Mayor Quilliam said it was predicted that in the first 10 years of operations, the Tarkine Drive plus attractions and future promotion would result in $453 million in increased spending.

"I think the Government has got the balance between development and environmental preservation right with this decision.

"The area is often described as one of Australia's 'best kept secrets' and we are determined it should become one of the nation's best loved places."

 

ENDS

For further details: Daryl Quilliam Mayor 0408 543 927