Minister Spence announces tender for Reid Park Race Precinct Development
Construction of Townsville's Reid Park V8 Race Precinct is set to get underway, following the announcement by Sport Minister Judy Spence today that Leighton Contractors, Northern Region has been selected for the tender. Ms Spence said: "The selection of a Managing Contractor is another significant milestone for this project, which will see the introduction of national V8 racing in Queensland's northern region.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Construction of Townsville’s Reid Park V8 Race Precinct is set to get underway, following the announcement by Sport Minister Judy Spence today that Leighton Contractors, Northern Region has been selected for the tender.
Ms Spence said: “The selection of a Managing Contractor is another significant milestone for this project, which will see the introduction of national V8 racing in Queensland’s northern region.
“Leighton Contractors, Northern Region put forward the best offer for the Managing Contractor tender, and are now expected to begin work on-site in the coming weeks.
“The Reid Park circuit design has been developed to provide a fantastic racing experience, with positive feedback received from a number of drivers.
“It will be approximately 2.85 kilometres in length, incorporating the existing Boundary Street and Charters Towers Road.
“A new bridge will also be developed crossing Ross Creek adjacent to the Townsville Rail Station for the track to continue through Reid Park behind the Townsville Civic Theatre before looping through Railway Estate Park to complete the circuit.
“Featuring tight turns which provide for more passing opportunities, better competition and more exciting racing for spectators; the fast flowing circuit will provide drivers with the opportunity to display their range of tactical and driving skills.
“The public will be able to view plans of the new track and surrounding precinct on the websites of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Recreation and the Townsville City Council this week.”
Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds welcomed the announcement of the tender and the release of the plans.
“This is an exciting step forward in the progress of this major project,” Mr Reynolds said.
"The plans show how the park will be transformed into an action packed racing precinct for the V8 Super Car event and a wonderful community area which will have enormous long term benefit for the city."
General Manager, Leighton Contractors Northern Region, Darren Weir said the project management and construction group looked forward to the opportunity presented to their organisation.
“We are excited to be involved with such a significant sporting project for North Queensland and look forward to getting on with the job of delivering the race infrastructure including the track, new bridge over Ross Creek, permanent pit building and associated park enhancements.”
Townsville Mayor Les Tyrell said he can’t wait to see the world-class race track take shape over the next 10 months in time for the big race on 10-12 July, 2009.
“I am looking forward to the economic benefits this race will bring the city, including an upgraded Reid Park and a multi-use facility,” Mayor Tyrell said.
“The new precinct will be available for use all year round, providing residents and visitors with lots of open spaces to get together, as well as opportunities for recreation activities such as picnics, cycling and walking.
“Today moves us one step closer to making the precinct and race track a reality.”
Ms Spence said the Townsville V8 Supercar event will be a must see spectacle, both on and off the track.
“The Queensland Government is committed to supporting major motor racing events and the Townsville V8 Supercar race cements Queensland’s position as a motor racing hub,” Ms Spence said.
“We have provided more than $14M into the $29.58M project to construct the Townsville Reid Park precinct, which is the largest contribution of funds.
“The event is a great example of the state and local government working together to achieve an outcome which is great for both the state and the local community.”
Media contact: Minister Spence’s Office 3239 6172
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