Trams are out and buses are in as the Queensland Government rules out a fourth stage expansion of the light rail network on the Gold Coast.
The government says nearly two-thirds of 5600 submissions made during public consultations opposed the extension in favour of protecting landmarks like Burleigh Head National Park and Tallebudgera Creek.
TRAMS REVIEW FINDINGS
- There was great concern about a previous consultation process with over half of respondents indicating they hadn’t been properly consulted.
- Almost two-thirds of respondents opposed the project.
- A $7.6 billion blowout in costs out to $9.85 billion.
- Local push for better bus services.
- More respect for nature and local landmarks, such as Burleigh Head National Park and Tallebudgera Creek.
The review focused on expansion of the trams network in a 13-km coastal corridor between Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta.
Click here to read the full review.
The review also noted that Brisbane’s Cross River Rail and Gold Coast Light Rail stage three construction work have been delayed; the stage three extension is expected to take at least four years.
The government say it will focus on upgrading bus services and a new multi-modal transport study for the region; this would take in a link to the M1 to the west, a link to the Gold Coast Airport and a potential spur line to Harbour Town.
MP for Currumbin Laura Gerber says the decision shows that the community’s concerns had been listened to.
“Following a packed town hall and thousands of community submissions, the message is clear … the community has been heard,” she says.
MP for Burleigh Hermann Vorster thanked the community for taking part in the review.
“I’m proud to stand with a community that’s passionate, informed, and ready to shape the future of transport on the Gold Coast,” Mr Vorster said.
“Their input has been invaluable, and it’s front and centre in this report.”
For details of the findings and the next steps, click here to visit the transport department website.
