First steps in $706m rail stage

EXPRESSIONS of interest to work on the $706 million Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads light rail extension will launch today, just 10 days after the project’s funding was secured.

The first industry briefing will be held on December 9 for companies hoping to be involved in the design and construction of the 6.7km Stage 3A extension.

GoldlinQ chairman John Witheriff said the competitive tender process would start with interest being sought from leading national and international companies.

“A shortlist of selected contractors will be determined early next year with a detailed tender process to follow, allowing a construction partner to be appointed and major works to start in the second half of 2020,” he said.

“Lessons learnt from Stage 1 were implemented in the delivery of Stage 2 and our focus is on ensuring value for money, an innovative construction approach and minimising community impacts.”

The Bulletin last week revealed a deal had been struck between the state and federal governments for Canberra to put an extra $157 million into the project.

The Commonwealth injection ended a funding stand-off with the State Government that threatened to derail the project.

State Transport Minister Mark Bailey said more than 760 jobs would be created during construction.

“Light rail revolutionised public transport on the Coast and it’s been a major jobcreating project,” he said.

“Gold Coasters and people from across the world have embraced the G, with more than 42 million trips since Stage 1 opened five years ago.”

The extension to Burleigh Heads will incorporate eight new stations.