Taking A Long-term View Of Major Projects

Illawarra Mercury

Wednesday March 7, 2007

By the Mercury's Business editor GREG ELLIS

WHEN Mark Grimson looked at yesterday's Sydney Morning Herald and read how the Sydney Harbour Bridge may not have been built if it had relied on private-public partnerships he couldn't help but draw comparisons with today.

The article mentioned how the bridge did not generate a positive cash flow until almost 30 years after it was opened and could not have been built now without a huge public subsidy.

The Illawarra Business Chamber chief executive said for that to happen now it would mean looking at such an important infrastructure project with the long-term impact in mind.

And he believes that is the kind of forward vision required now with infrastructure projects such as the possible completion of the Maldon-Dombarton railway line.

It is a point Mark expects will be raised with politicians at the chamber's next executive lunch on March 16.

Mark says some regional infrastructure projects, such as Maldon-Dombarton and a Picton Rd upgrade, require politicians to take a longer term view on increased activity in areas like Port Kembla.

He says there were often good reasons for governments to borrow money for such projects.

The lunch features Minister for the Illawarra David Campbell, the Opposition's Illawarra spokeswoman Peta Seaton and NSW Business Chamber CEO Kevin MacDonald.

Registrations at www.illawarrabusiness.com or 4229 4722.

© 2007 Illawarra Mercury

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