Published on Thursday, 14 March 2024 at 10:32:04 AM

The Shire of Dardanup endorsed the return of State Black Spot Funding at February's Council Meeting, due to tenders for the Ferguson Road Reconstruction and Upgrade project being significantly over Council’s 2023-24 Budget Estimates.

Council President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the decision followed a thorough assessment of tenders for the project and was not taken lightly, reflecting the Shire's commitment to fiscal responsibility and delivering value for the community.

Cr Gardiner said the project cancellation was supported unanimously at the Ordinary Council Meeting in November last year, with the $457,333 (excl. GST) State Black Spot funding to be returned.

"Our responsibility as stewards of public funds demands careful consideration of every project and expenditure," Cr Gardiner said.

“With the significant amount of road and civil works currently underway in the South West region, contractors are all flat out and it’s not surprising that the tenders came in significantly higher than expected.

“Council staff were advised that, since the State Black Spot Program is an outcome focussed funding source, and because the proposed outcome has not been achieved, the Shire must return all of the funds previously received for both Stages 1 and 2.

“Returning funding is not something Council wants to do, but going ahead with any of the proposed tenders was not a financially sound decision.

“Despite the project cancellation, we remain dedicated to delivering essential infrastructure projects efficiently and effectively, and we will continue to look at ways to undertake maintenance and renewal works for the betterment of our Shire.”

For more information and updates, please visit the Shire of Dardanup's website at www.dardanup.wa.gov.au or contact our friendly Customer Service Team on (08) 9724 000 or email records@dardanup.wa.gov.au

Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.

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