The ACT budget 2016 – 17 consultation closed on the 14th October after a short four week consultation. The WVCC made a submission to the consultation and listed five key priorities based on current works, consultant reports and ageing infrastructure. These include:
Funding for a new Woden Community/Arts Centre. The Woden community centre report identified the possible reuse of existing empty buildings with Callam Offices a strong contender, though refurbishment costs are high.
The upgrade of Woden Bus interchange and associated transport infrastructure. The proposed upgrade of the Woden Bus interchange continues slowly with the partial removal of the ramp and walkway to create new stairs and a glass elevator. The new bus interchange design must include cover or a roof structure that will protect commuters transitioning between services.
Fund or release sites for an enclosed multipurpose indoor sports facility which includes an Aquatic centre. Two major consultant reports have recommended that an indoor aquatics centre be located in the town centre along with a indoor multi court facility. The WVCC has recommended the ACT Government consider releasing a site for the purpose of a multi sports indoor facility.
Yarralumla Creek revitalisation project – Woden Wetlands / Channel naturalisation. Continuing on from the work and proposed options with the ACT Basin priority project the WVCC has suggested that this work continue in future ACT Budgets under the Yarralumla creek revitalisation project.
Street Lighting renewal. It is now time to start a street lighting upgrade program for Woden given the age and the current street lighting does not meet current Australian Standards. This is a long term project which can to be spread across future ACT budgets, but work on the renewal needs to start now.