Shayne Neumann has called on the Deputy Prime Minister to fund the business case for the Ipswich to Springfield rail line.

Speaking Parliament, the Federal Member for Blair said he had spoken to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure twice this week.

He used the speech to remind him to do the right thing by Ipswich.

“The city of Ipswich is the fastest growing city in Queensland and the population projected to more than double by 2040,” Mr Neumann said.

“But it does not have the infrastructure to match that growth.

“Of that growth at least 70 per cent will occur in the southern corridor, taking in Springfield, Redbank Plains, the Ripley Valley and Deebing Heights.

“I have been supportive of the Queensland Government and Ipswich City Council’s plans to create a rail link between Ipswich Central and Springfield train stations.

“This rail link will take the pressure off our congested roads and provide much needed linkages between these two important business and community hubs.

“In addition, it would link the University of Southern Queensland’s Ipswich and Springfield campuses.

“The rail would service the Ipswich Showground and its proposed Exhibition and Convention Centre, which would serve as a major evacuation centre.”

Mr Neumann said the city of Ipswich has had no major infrastructure work since Labor was in Government.

“I have informed the Deputy Prime Minister that the Queensland Government has committed $1 million, while the Ipswich City Council has committed $500,000.

“I have requested a $1 million allocation in the upcoming Budget.

“I believe that is a fair and reasonable request and trust the Federal Government will do the right thing by Ipswich.”

View the speech on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ShayneNeumannMP/videos/1071630249983680