Queensland Government Supports Priors Creek Development

Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) is undertaking the Priors Creek Development to activate a disused section of state-controlled rail corridor to create a family-orientated mixed use and leisure area in Atherton.

The Queensland Government will provide more than $1.5M to TRC to support the development as part of the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Cycle Network Local Government Grants program.

Funding will support delivery of shared pathways, signage, lighting, shade trees, bike racks, and an active transport bridge linking the development with residential areas on the northern side of Priors Creek.

The investment is part of Queensland’s Big Build, with $328M committed over the next four years towards standalone active transport initiatives, including bikeways, shared paths, and bridges across the state.

‘I’m excited to hear about TRC’s Priors Creek Development project to revitalise the heart of Atherton and provide a new space for the community to spend time outdoors and keep active together, including opportunities to provide improved options for people walking and riding in the area,’ said Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey.

‘The Queensland Government is proud to provide more than $1.5M in funding to deliver shared pathways, signage, lighting, shade trees and bike racks across the development area.

‘The funding will also support construction of an active transport bridge linking the development with residential areas on the northern side of Priors Creek.

‘This investment forms part of the $328M that the Queensland Government has committed towards active transport over the next four years.

‘We know that, on average, every dollar we invest in bike infrastructure will return nearly five dollars in economic benefit to Queensland with improved health outcomes, reduced traffic congestion, and lower transport costs,’ said Minister Bailey.

‘This announcement is great news for the Tablelands Region, the Priors Creek Development and our ongoing commitment to active transport in our region,’ said Mayor Rod Marti.

‘The funding is a critical early instalment that will bolster Council’s commitment to Stage 1 of the Priors Creek Development.

‘It’s also fitting the first money to come through is from the Department of Transport and Main Roads given the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail is the backbone of Priors Creek. We look forward to working with the government as we transform Atherton into a bustling 21st century centre,’ said Mayor Marti.

For more information about the Cycle Network Local Government Grants program, visit tmr.qld.gov.au/travel-and-transport/cycling.