GUNNEDAH mayor Owen Hasler has welcomed the state government expanding criteria to allow the sewerage treatment plant to finally be shortlisted to receive an upgrade.
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Gunnedah is in the running to secure $1.98 million for the upgrade under the Resources for Regions program.
“We have applied for the funding previously, but we didn’t meet the criteria supposedly,” Cr Hasler said.
“They recognised the truck movement and (expanded the criteria). We would say it’s overdue, but belated recognition. That’s why we made representation with the former deputy minister and we’ve obviously been working with our local member to raise the issue and have the criteria expanded.”
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson said competition had been strong for the $32 million available, with 67 expressions of interest for more than $216 million worth of projects.
“Because Gunnedah is mining-affected, I fought hard to get them included in the list so that they could have a chance at receiving funding that they deserve,” Mr Anderson said.
Final funding will be determined after detailed applications have been reviewed by and recommendations made to the government nu Infrastructure NSW.
“We certainly will be making every effort to ensure out detailed application will guarantee us some money for the upgrade,” Cr Hasler said.
This round of funding is in addition to $208 million already allocated under the program.
