A CITYWIDE TRAM FIX

TODAY could be a watershed moment in development of a truly efficient public transport system for the Gold Coast.

For the first time, the city’s leaders are putting the public in the picture on development of the Gold Coast light rail system, revealing steps that go well beyond what people already know.

What the Mayor and others have to say reveals a timeline for turning an already well-patronised service into a public transport system that not only runs north-south, but crisscrosses the city, allowing commuters to reach both major sports stadiums and, importantly, high-population residential suburbs in the city’s west.

Stage 2, which takes the trams from Gold Coast University Hospital to Helensvale to link with heavy rail from Brisbane, is so close to completion that the tracks are in place, the power lines along the route have been energised and tram trials are about to start. The catalyst for its construction was the Commonwealth Games, but the real value will lie in the benefits delivered in years to come as northern suburbs residents are able to use public transport to access business, commerce, shopping and employment opportunities without the nightmare of using the M1.

Planning of stage 3 extensions to Burleigh and south to the airport is well under way, with surveys of residents telling the council “just get on with it’’ to push the line from Broadbeach to Burleigh. As traffic clogs the roads, it has to happen.

Our report today reveals the steps that will turn light rail into a proper, citywide service. Like all the locals who are urging the authorities to take the line to Burleigh, the Bulletin today supports moves to take the trams west and appeals to MPs at all levels of government to just get on with it.

In a climate of uncertainty surrounding the direction the Gold Coast should take in ensuring prosperity beyond the Games, such infrastructure projects are city-builders that will generate jobs.

Developers must make significant funding contributions as they are allowed into corridors along the route to build their towers. But governments should not be coy about bankrolling public transport.

Traffic volumes on the M1 and in the city’s streets are forcing their hand.