The Mareeba Chamber of Commerce has urged the Tablelands community to continue to apply pressure on the State Government to upgrade the Mareeba to Cairns link of the Kennedy Highway.
“In its current state, this section of road fails to properly cater for the current volume of traffic and
future anticipated growth,” chamber chair Joe Moro said.
“It’s impacting on all industries – from commuter traffic to freight transport and tourism.”
Mr Moro’s comments come after the developers of Kur-World claimed the State Department of Transport and Main Roads has cast doubt on the project due to traffic management issues on the Kuranda Range Road.
While not commenting on the specifics of the development, Mr Moro said it was concerning to think the state of the current road link could hamper a development of this kind.
“While we welcome the work that the State Government has funded to deliver safety and efficiency improvements, and continues to fund, we are yet to see a tangible solution to addressing the longterm efficiency needs of this link,” Mr Moro said.
“As any tangible long-term solution is likely to require a lengthy period of planning, engagement and evaluation, not to mention a commitment from both the state and federal governments, it’s imperative that we start now.”
