THE Granite Belt Irrigation Project has reached the important Go/Stop/Pause decision point giving stakeholders time to assess the project to date.
GBIP's operator, Granite Belt Water Limited chief executive officer Lloyd Taylor said, had entered a 'pause' phase, as discussions were held with the Australian and Queensland governments on the project's design, costings and approvals.
The Granite Belt Irrigation Project includes a 12,000 megalitre dam at Emu Swamp, south west of Stanthorpe, and 126km of pipeline.
"Now the design and construct tenders are closed, we are working closely with both the Australian and Queensland governments to assess the options," Mr Taylor said.
"This pause is typical of projects of this size and complexity, and gives us time to comprehensively look at those options and to make key decisions for what is a significant infrastructure development for the Southern Downs."
Queensland rural and regional dam operator Sunwater is also taking part in the discussions and providing advice at this critical time.
Mr Taylor said the duration of the pause had not yet been determined.
"The local community remains at the heart of this project and we will always be as transparent as possible with the Southern Downs community, while we deliver this important project," Mr Taylor said.
"Along with our conversations with the Australian and Queensland governments, we are also continuing to work closely at the local level and having ongoing discussions with Southern Downs Regional Council."
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