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In response to a number of complaints raised by local residents about the condition of the unsealed section of road in Scotchmans Road, Drysdale between No's. 91 and 266, we are considering a potential road upgrade. The map above shows the location of the proposed works.

We are proposing that this upgrade be delivered through a Special Rate and Charge (SRC) scheme. This is a co-funding arrangement in which the total cost is shared between the City and the benefitting property owners. Under this model, the City will contribute 50% of the project cost, while the remaining 50% will be funded by those property owners who directly benefit from the upgrade.

Special Rates and Charge Scheme

Under the Local Government Act 1989, the costs for new or upgraded infrastructure which benefits a specific group of property owners can be levied as a special charge. Under Council’s Special Rates and Charges Policy, an SRC scheme enables the City to provide services to the community that may otherwise be impeded by budgets and timing.

The purpose of this engagement is to seek feedback to help us understand if there is enough support for the proposed upgrade to proceed under an SRC scheme in the future. We will be in contact with you again after the survey has closed to inform you of the outcome.

As a guide, should the project proceed in the future, it is anticipated that costs would be apportioned based on usage. Most properties are expected to contribute approximately $50,000 per property.

Please note that payment would not be required immediately. From this stage, the process is expected to take approximately two to three years before construction is undertaken and invoices are issued.

At that time, flexible payment plans will be available if required, and hardship provisions will also be in place to support property owners where needed.

If most property owners are supportive, we will seek to prepare the designs which will enable us to gauge more accurate costs. We will undertake further engagement with property owners at that stage and you will have another opportunity to share feedback with us at that time.

Please note that by providing an expression of interest at this stage does not commit you to any payments or to supporting the project in future steps.

More information about Special Rate and Charge schemes is available here.

We encourage property owners to share their preference by participating in a short survey. It is important that we hear your views so that the decision reflects true community feelings.

We want to know if you:

• Support the proposed road upgrade; and
• Are willing to partner with us in a cost sharing arrangement under a Special Rate and Charge scheme in the future.

Your feedback is important to us. Choose the method below that suits you to provide your feedback: