Bad plan a tourist bypass

A CAMPAIGN to market the Captain Cook Hwy as a picturesque window to the tropics could be tarnished unless the Smithfield bypass is built to the highest possible standard.

Douglas Shire Council Mayor Julia Leu has joined a growing list of Far North business and political entities pleading with the State Government to ensure no shortcuts are taken in building the 3.8km timesaving route.

“The Smithfield bypass is a vital project that has the ability to boost traffic flow for the popular tourism route between Cairns and Cape Tribulation,” she said. “This idyllic route along the Captain Cook Hwy has recently been rebranded as the Great Barrier Reef Drive in a bid to attract more visitors to see our spectacular coastline and World Heritage-listed rainforest first-hand.

“It is therefore crucial that the start of this iconic journey flows smoothly and is an enjoyable experience.”

The Cairns Chamber of Commerce, Advance Cairns, Skyrail, Far North Queensland Tour Operators Association, James Cook University and Cairns Regional Council have all raised concerns about the current plan in recent days.

“It is heartening to see the bypass getting some legs, but I encourage the State Government to consider all options and make sure they get this landmark project spot-on,” Cr Leu said.

Mareeba Shire Mayor Tom Gilmore said he had not studied the State Government’s bypass map in-depth but he welcomed the $152 million investment.

“I’m pleased that the matter is receiving attention and pretty well any improvement will be better than the present situation,” he said.