BURLEIGH ABOARD

No more ‘Slo-Mo’ as PM fast-tracks $112m for city light rail

PRIME Minister Scott Morrison is pressuring the State Government to stump up for light rail’s Burleigh extension by fast-tracking his promised $112 million to get it there.

“Our funding is locked in and ready to go. Let’s get on with it.”

PRIME Minister Scott Morrison has fast-tracked more than $112 million for the Gold Coast Light rail’s third stage, putting pressure on the State Government to stump up its own funding by Christmas.

The new PM arrives on the Glitter Strip this morning to confirm the Federal Government’s contribution to the light rail’s stage 3A, which will run from Broadbeach to Burleigh.

The long-awaited funds, first revealed in an explosive budget leak in September, come just weeks before the results of a $10 million business case study on the $660 million, 6.4km extension.

Mr Morrison (right) was previously coy about whether the government would fund the project but last night confirmed to the Gold Coast Bulletin the funds were ready to be used.

“Extending the light rail from Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads is vital to supporting a growing city like the Gold Coast,” he told the Bulletin.

“Our funding is locked in and ready to go from day one.

“Now it’s time for the Queensland Government to make their contribution – let’s get on with it.”

The Gold Coast City Council’s commitment is expected to be between $66 million and $72 million while the State Government will bear the remainder of the cost.

Both have indicated support for funding it once the business case is completed.

Stage 3A will include eight new stations, upgraded pedestrian and cycling facilities and an upgraded bus interchange at Burleigh Heads.

It is expected to create 2400 jobs during construction and up to 39 a year once operational.

Mr Morrison said the tram system would help support population growth and bust congestion on the Gold Coast as well as boost tourism, local businesses and motorists.

While on the Coast today, Mr Morrison will hold a barbecue breakfast at Broadbeach Surf Club with local seniors.

The tram extension will be operational by 2023 and will only take travellers 16 minutes to go from Broadbeach South Station to North Burleigh.

Mr Morrison, making his second visit to the city since taking the nation’s top job in August, said the project would bring many opportunities for urban revitalisation at the Burleigh Heads and Nobby Beach precincts.

Though no funding has been committed, Mr Morrison confirmed a future Stage 3B would complete the entire corridor, connecting Coolangatta Airport with the earlier stages.

The State Government and council are moving quickly to complete the business case.

This study analyses the route and will determine exact costings and station locations.

State Transport Minister Mark Bailey told the Bulletin the business case would be completed early next month.

BULLETIN VIEW, P16