Hope for light rail re-route backers
MARK Bailey has given No Light Rail On the Gold Coast Highway campaigners a glimmer of hope that trams won’t be running south of Burleigh.
The Minister for Main Roads and Transport has responded to a petition against the expansion of the light rail, saying other options are being investigated.
However, investigations could also provide more support for the expansion of the light rail.
“We are undertaking a multi-modal study of the southern Gold Coast from Burleigh to Tugun,” Mr Bailey wrote.
“It will ensure the state considers the strategy, needs and function of all modes of transport, including the feasibility of light rail to meet community needs.
“If Stage 3B (from Burleigh to Tugun) of the Gold Coast Light Rail is to progress it will also be subject to a business case that will include extensive community engagement.
“Government funds for a business case for a potential future stage of the light rail from Burleigh Heads to Tugun, Stage 3B have not yet been committed.”
Mr Bailey’s response is to a 1599-signature petition endorsed by Member for Burleigh Michael Hart and calling on Mr Bailey to commission a feasibility study to find an alternative route for the light rail that would not see it go over Burleigh hill and through the centre of Palm Beach.
A Golden Age survey by the Bulletin found 82 per cent of respondents supported a tram extension, and 79 per cent want it to be to the airport. At least 65 per cent wanted that extension within three years.
The Gold Coast City Council and the State Government are preparing a business case for Stage 3A, a 6.4km extension from Broadbeach to Burleigh. Planning documents have indicated construction could start in 2020.
A draft preliminary business plan confirms Stage 3A would have up to eight light rail stations and five new light rail vehicles, include a light rail-bus interchange at Burleigh Heads and three signalised traffic intersections.
A council report said the light rail corridor vision would include intensified development around the rail stations while “respecting the prominent natural features” of the southern coast including its network of green spaces.
Stage 3B would face more challenges in terms of engineering with bridges and potential property buy-ups along the Gold Coast Highway.
It has also split opinion with opponents demanding the line goes west to Varsity Lakes train station rather than south to the airport via Palm Beach.
Views are also split among business owners. Most welcome the idea of trams reaching Burleigh, but also fear the impact of disruption during construction.