PUBLIC JUMPS ON BOARD

INDEPENDENT surveying has shown huge public support to get the trams running from Broadbeach to Burleigh and then on to the airport.

This surely puts an end to opposition from vocal minorities and a small number of elected representatives who are spooked whenever someone complains.

Conducted as part of the $10 million detailed business case put together by the city council and the State Government, the survey’s results are the biggest indicator yet that not only the tiers of government but also the public has given this vital transport project the green light.

A year ago, the city’s political leaders from all three levels of government were already on board the $600 million stage 3A light rail juggernaut. At the time federal Fadden MP Stuart Robert summed up the enthusiasm for action this way: “We are feeling pretty upbeat about it because what you have seen between the three levels of government, including myself, (Deputy Premier) Jackie Trad and (Mayor) Tom Tate, to get stage two was a deal done in two weeks.’’

And what a success stage 2 proved to be, completed ahead of schedule to link the light rail system with heavy rail at Helensvale – a key public transport initiative for the Commonwealth Games in April, allowing international tourists and Brisbane residents to journey down to fill the stadiums for that mega-event. Healthy patronage has continued.

Gold Coasters want stage 3A to go ahead pronto. Overall, residents have shown 86 per cent support for extending the route to Burleigh and 91 per cent backing for the trams to run to the airport.

People living along the proposed track have shown 72 per cent support for stage 3A and 75 per cent support for stage 3B. This is also overwhelming. It must be noted though that the magnitude of backing is not as high as the overall figure because the citywide result reflects the opinions of many people in suburbs where the tram line already runs. They have embraced the system and see the value in decent public transport infrastructure running the length and ultimately the breadth of the city.

Given the survey figures, councillors and MPs who are siding with opponents will find themselves wedged. They have to step back and look at what is good for the city rather than their own position. With available land running out, residential development will involve towers and that sort of growth demands a transport system that can handle the population.

Council papers show that community issues raised include concerns about parking, the impact of construction on businesses and, with stage 3B, any impact on the Burleigh Heads National Park, cultural and environmental issues and Palm Beach. These are important.

The papers say mitigation measures are contained in the detailed business case – which remains confidential until it has gone to Cabinet, probably in March. These must be aired publicly.

Council papers also show that following completion of the business case this month, and once design and procurement documents are completed next year, construction will start in 2020, with completion in 2023. Bring it on.