Gold Coast light rail plan scrapped as buses take focus

The extension of the light rail on the Gold Coast to Coolangatta was scrapped, so the region is stuck on expanded bus services. Regional bosses are worried the act will lead to congestion unless a proper public transport solution is in place for the growth corridor south.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Gold Coast light rail cancellation and transport alternatives

Queensland government scrapped the multi-billion-dollar light rail project due to high cost and opposition from locals. Acting Mayor Mark Hammel added the southern suburbs are only going to receive more buses, but not a rapid transit system or dedicated lanes.

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Officials confirmed the plan as utilizing more advanced buses, such as 24-meter buses, as well as prioritization at intersections. While such an “enhanced” solution does not develop dedicated busways or own assets, as did past rapid bus schemes with significant resumptions.

Population growth fuelling demand after buses

From Coolangatta to Burleigh Heads, the coastal strip is in for rapid growth with the population increasing by 12,000 in 16 years. Additionally, millions of tourists go through Gold Coast Airport annually, and travel demand on available transportation increases exponentially.

Defenders of the scrapped plan believe that tramways might have offered a stable, long-term alternative to cars. Opponents emphasize in turn that buses on their own are not in a position to achieve the scale of economies necessary to forestall congestion on the Gold Coast Highway.

Future of southern Gold Coast public transport

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie suggested a rapid bus system could offer better connectivity than a fixed rail. But a government review deemed it infeasible for the land resumption necessary and building expenses for bridges and interchanges.

Therefore, the current plan places a premium on expanded bus service over large-scale new infrastructure. Acting Mayor Hammel called on state officials for space guarantees for future corridors, such that individuals won’t forever be kept out of expanded higher-capacity transit service.

Why was the Gold Coast light rail extension axed?

It was abandoned due to high costs, land resumption challenges, and people’s objections. Therefore, the government is set to focus on broader bus services for commuters along the southern Gold Coast.

What will supplant the axed light rail project?

It envisions an “upgraded bus system,” with articulated buses and bus-priority lanes in intersections, but no bus rapid transit or major new infrastructure.

How will population growth impact southern Gold Coast transport?

Thousands of newcomers annually and millions of tourists annually mean experts are warning that buses may not be enough to meet demand. Solutions in the long-term may include sparing space for dedicated transit corridors.

Source: www.abc.net.au

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