Image: Dronie Ward
The Malinauskas Labor Government has announced a new set of initiatives targeted at enhancing the infrastructure of Mount Barker. This extensive plan, which forms part of the re-elected government’s election promise, hopes to inject upwards of $200 million into creating and revamping educational, health, transport, and community facilities in the area.
Mount Barker has experienced rapid population growth, with projections suggesting nearly 130,000 residents by 2051. The Labor Government, having previously invested significantly in the Adelaide Hills, plans to launch a series of ventures that are both beneficial in the present and sustainable in the future. The Plan for Mount Barker will kick off operations promptly in March if Labor is re-elected.
Premier Peter Malinauskas shared, “Mount Barker is one of the fastest growing areas of the state, and a beautiful place to live. But it is also true to say that governments of both persuasions have failed to properly plan for this booming growth. This Labor Government has a different approach.”
Among the key components announced were the expansion and signalisation of the Adelaide and Hawthorn Road intersection with $80 million allocated to alleviate traffic and improve road safety. A significant $96 million will be invested in the full redevelopment of Mount Barker High School, improving facilities to aid in advanced learning environments. Plans for purchasing land for a second high school were also confirmed.
As for healthcare, the proposal includes supporting a 24/7 pharmacy, expanding accessible health services for the community. A new state-of-the-art Mount Barker Police Station was also on the agenda to accommodate the growing population and maintain safety.
“Our Plan for Mount Barker takes the next step, delivering the elements needed by this growing community. A 24/7 pharmacy, new high school, new police station, upgraded roads. Our investment in TAFE will ensure the Mount Barker community has the tradies to build the homes that are going to be required,” added Peter Malinauskas.
David Leach, Labor Candidate for Kavel, also shared, “Labor’s plan for Mount Barker takes into account the range of people’s life stages, from parents with young children, through our youth needing training and education to the senior members with their health and security concerns.
“As Mount Barker has grown we have struggled to match infrastructure planning across more than 20 developments, this plan will enable Mount Barker to make the inevitable change from country town to a vibrant small city.
“The Malinauskas Labor Government’s plan for Mount Barker is a result of careful consultation and listening to what the people need to make this an even better place to work, raise a family and grow old with community.”
The government’s plan also includes building a new TAFE Trades Workshop aimed at boosting local skills in trades such as electrical, plumbing, and carpentry. This $25.5 million investment would support an extra 1,200 apprentices, directly addressing the labour demands of the growing construction needs in the area.
Further investments comprising the $365.8 million new Mount Barker Hospital will expand inpatient capacity and medical services. Additional projects include a new preschool and primary school, expanded bus services, and significant freeway upgrades.
These all reflect the government’s strategy to adapt to the escalating growth in Mount Barker by providing comprehensive infrastructure that serves immediate needs while fostering long-term improvement and stability in the region.
This bold plan showcases the government’s commitment to making sure Mount Barker develops into a thriving spot, accommodating its residents through enhanced facilities and services, and setting a framework for the community’s future.
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