The Cairns Regional Council has voted to proceed with the construction of a new $155 million Entertainment Precinct on the banks of Trinity Inlet south of the CBD.

Mayor Val Schier said Council had received unprecedented government support for the project and was the envy of other councils throughout the state.

“We are leading the way for other councils in terms of securing government funding and now need to repay that level of confidence and support by ensuring this project is delivered to budget and to a standard that will reflect a vibrant and growing community,” Cr Schier said.

Three levels of government will fund the Precinct, with $40 million allocated by the Federal Government, $57.3 million from the Queensland Government and Council contributing the remaining $57.3 million.

“This injection of money into our region’s economy will benefit so many people in so many ways.“I look forward to seeing this project progress from a concept on paper to an asset of which we, as a region, can be truly proud.

Project Manager Linda Cardew said today’s vote allowed Council to proceed with vital steps in making the project a reality.

“This means we can now call for expressions of interest from contractors and start the detailed design phase,” Ms Cardew said. “First, we have to execute funding deeds to lock in the money from the Commonwealth and State Governments.“

We hope to start work on the site after the wet season in early 2012 and have the building completed by 2015.” 

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