Infrastructure plan for million residents

City of Moreton Bay has adopted a new 20-year infrastructure plan to help manage the demands of a population expected to double to one million in around 30 years.

The Moreton Bay Infrastructure Plan 2026-2046 will guide decisions on the roads, transport connections, parks, community facilities and other infrastructure needed as the city grows from its current population of around 500,000.

It also sets out a long-term vision for a city with multiple centres where residents can access jobs, services and opportunities closer to home, reducing the need to travel elsewhere.

Mayor Peter Flannery said planning for that growth now was critical to protecting the city's lifestyle and ensuring infrastructure kept pace with development.

“We are one of the newest cities in Australia, and one of the fastest growing local government areas, so the decisions we make today will shape the future of our City for generations to come,” he said.

“Infrastructure is the backbone of every great city, so it’s important we get the planning right now to ensure we can deliver for the future.

“It brings together all the little things in life that matter most, from your school drop-off and commute to work, to the parks where we meet on the weekend, and the community facilities we use every day.”

The plan identifies infrastructure priorities and opportunities over the next two decades, including projects Council expects to be delivered within that period.

Some will be within Council's control, while others will depend on partnerships and investment from the Queensland and Australian Governments and private industry.

Although the plan provides a framework for future decisions, it does not mean all the projects identified have secured funding or approval.

Mayor Flannery said the challenge would be delivering infrastructure that supported population growth while protecting the natural environment and maintaining the lifestyle residents value.

He also acknowledged the need to turn the long-term vision into action.

“While a plan is only a plan and we must back this up with actions; we believe it establishes the vital foundations we need to build sustained success over the coming decades and for future generations.”

The plan will be updated as the city grows and its infrastructure needs change.

The full Moreton Bay Infrastructure Plan 2026-2046 is available on Council's website.