REMEMBER WHEN

GOLD COAST BULLETIN Wednesday July 11, 2007

CONSTRUCTION of a 300m rail tunnel in the heart of Robina and dual electrified tracks was to begin as part of the State Government’s $324.4 million Varsity Lakes transport hub.

The project was brought forward to ease pressure on the faltering Gold Coast transport grid.

Transport Minister Paul Lucas confirmed work would begin within weeks.

“We have had people on site but work will begin next month to get things up and running,” Mr Lucas said.

“This is an integral project for the Gold Coast and the transformation of the site from what it was when we acquired it is amazing.’’

The 8.5ha site bought by the State Government in 2006 was to become the home of the new Varsity Lakes station, 50,000sqm office space, 10,000sqm of retail space and 500 to 1000 dwellings.

Mr Lucas said the land was acquired from Delfin in a deal which included public-private partnerships that would allow development on sites next to the station.

The new hub would create 3500 jobs and includes works along Scottsdale Drive, where contractors were ripping down high voltage overhead powerlines and replacing them with underground wires.

Completion of the 4.1km rail extension to Robina was set for 2010.

It would incorporate the new station, two road overbridges at Investigator Drive and Robina Parkway and the dual tracks.

Premier Peter Beattie said the Varsity Lakes station would provide at least 300 commuter carparking spaces, a drop-off area, six bus and 10 taxi bays.