Cairns Regional Council has voted to allow incentives for developers as a means of kick-starting the struggling local construction industry.
 
Councillors yesterday voted to grant discounts on developer infrastructure contribution charges to “shovel-ready” projects that can be completed within 12 months.
 
“This is going to save developers money, hopefully making it more attractive to develop land in the Cairns region during the next year,” Council’s General Manager Planning and Environment, Peter Tabulo, said.
 
The headworks discount would be capped at $4 million and available to both residential and commercial development that meet Council’s planning guidelines and discount eligibility criteria.
 
“We know there are projects out there that are ready to go, but associated costs are holding them back,” Mr Tabulo said. “We hope this extra incentive will get those projects moving along.”
 
Mayor Val Schier said the decision will help prop up the local construction industry.
 
“The objective here is to create jobs and support our construction industry, which is vital to our economy,” Cr Schier said.
 
“I hope many developers will take up this opportunity and the jobs that are created will provide a strong flow-on effect into other parts of our community.”