Palaszczuk Government takes next step on G:Link extension
27 April 2018
Queensland Government:
On the back of its star performance during the
Commonwealth Games, planning has now begun for a proposed extension of
the
Gold Coast light
rail system.
Transport and Main
Roads Minister Mark Bailey said he was encouraged by Gold Coast
light rail’s ‘heavy lifting’ during the Games.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s decision to complete stage two of the
light
rail was critical to the success of the Games,” Mr Bailey said.
“The tram network carried almost 100,000 passengers a day, nearly four
times the normal daily average.
“This would not have been possible without our unwavering commitment to
this project and the fact we built it in record time.”
Mr Bailey said the time was now right to investigate the further
extension of the tram line.
“The Palaszczuk Government is leading the development of a
jointly-funded
business case in partnership with the
City of Gold Coast,
with each contributing $5 million towards its cost," he said.
"It makes sense to plan now for this vital project, which will enhance
the lifestyle and economic opportunities for the
Gold Coast.
“Light
rail was designed to be delivered in stages to respond to the city’s
growth and the first two stages of light rail have proven it to be a
viable alternative to using the car."
Mr Bailey said he expected the detailed business case for the next stage
would be considered by the government early next year.
“The preferred extension runs about seven kilometres down the centre of
the Gold Coast Highway between the Broadbeach South light rail station
and Burleigh Heads,” he said.
“This will include up to eight new stations, however final alignment and
station locations have yet to be decided.
“Planning will include consultation with the community in the second
half of this year."
Acting Gold Coast Mayor Donna Gates said local firm Bennett and Bennett
had started survey works this week to locate and identify underground
services and map the reference alignment.
"There will be several surveying teams out on different parts of the
corridor over the coming months,” Mr Tate said.
“The survey results would be used in the detailed business case to help
decide engineering design, station locations and replacement, upgrading
or relocation of underground services.”
Mr Bailey said planning further south on the Gold Coast Highway was also
underway.
"We are in the early stages of reviewing the existing transport corridor
south of Burleigh Heads to ensure it meets future requirements,” he
said.
"This study will consider all transport modes - walking, cycling,
driving and public transport, including the potential for a further
extension of the light rail system.”
--ENDS--
Source: Queensland Government - www.statements.qld.gov.au
Contact: Media contact: Brock Taylor, 0427 018 178
External Links: N/A
Recent news by: Queensland Government