Four Queenstown Lakes projects are still in the running for the government’s ‘shovel-ready’ infrastructure fund, and two of them are in the Upper Clutha. 

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) said further information has been requested on four of the projects it put forward for the fund, which has an $800M pot to spend on quick-start projects which could help boost economic recovery post-COVID-19.

The Cardrona Wastewater Project and Wanaka Lakefront enhancement have been eyed by the government's Crown Infrastructure Partners (CIP) as contenders for the fund.   

“QLDC’s proposal will potentially unlock in excess of $300M in infrastructure projects across the district through spending by central government, council, Iwi and private interests. This will result in a long-term improvement to local infrastructure and create a significant number of new jobs,” the council said in a statement.

The Roys Bay foreshore enhancement would fast-track the long-awaited Wanaka lakefront development stages two to five, designed to promote active travel modes and enhance the town centre’s lakefront design and ecology.  

A Cardrona wastewater upgrade is one of the projects identified for further consideration. PHOTO: Wanaka App

The Cardrona Wastewater Project submission would supply funding for the Cardrona wastewater pipeline project and wastewater treatment plant to enable a compliant wastewater scheme to replace the town’s current scheme, which is failing. 

QLDC chief engineer Ulrich Glasner told the Wanaka App the Cardrona project is essential for residents and businesses of the Cardrona Valley and would go ahead regardless of whether or not government funding was received.

Projects to make the shortlist over the hill are the Queenstown Events Centre upgrade and the Queenstown Town Centre transformation, which includes the Queenstown Street Upgrades project and the Queenstown Arterials project.

“It’s great to hear these projects are continuing to be considered for funding. It’s also important to remember they have not been accepted just yet,” mayor Jim Boult said.

A timeframe for the confirmation of the shovel-ready projects is yet to be announced.