State Reviews Gold Coast Light Rail Expansion Plans

State Reviews Gold Coast Light Rail Expansion Plans. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The state government today starts reviewing the Gold Coast light rail expansion amid rising disputes. Officials target community concerns and sustainable transport solutions effectively.

Concerns Surrounding the Gold Coast Light Rail Expansion

Authorities plan stage four to connect the G:link line to Gold Coast Airport directly and efficiently. The City of Gold Coast council also pushes for an extension to Tweed Heads.

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Yet, the 13-kilometer project triggers skepticism among locals due to its significant community disruptions. Residents spotlight displacement of 235 homes and loss of 1,000 parking spaces clearly.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie condemns the former Labor government for forcing the project without proper input. He criticizes them for neglecting residents’ needs and hiding plans from scrutiny.

Government Promises Robust Community Engagement

Bleijie commits to a thorough consultation process to tackle local concerns during this review phase. He confirms the Department of Infrastructure and Planning will oversee the evaluation closely.

Officials aim to hold the Department of Transport and Main Roads accountable for previous shortcomings. The focus remains on collecting community feedback and avoiding decisions that upset locals.

Bleijie honors his election promise to amplify southern Gold Coast voices through this open process. He guarantees the government will not rush a decision on the rail project.

Public Opinion Splits as Costs Climb Higher

A December 2021 consultation shows mixed community views on the rail extension’s overall benefits. Two-thirds back it, but only one-third see it improving transport links significantly.

Meanwhile, project costs jump past $7.6 billion USD, pushing officials to seek cheaper transport alternatives. The state explores buses from Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta with 14 stops included.

Authorities suggested buses in January after the federal government declined extra funding requests. This option emerges as a practical fix to meet regional transport needs affordably.

Looking Ahead With Flexible Solutions

The ongoing review provides a chance to reassess the rail project’s stage four viability thoroughly. Officials work to balance community priorities with fiscal duty and innovative transport ideas.

Experts expect the consultation will craft a decision that mirrors residents’ needs accurately and fairly. The state dedicates itself to building a transport system that serves Gold Coast well.

This effort highlights the government’s emphasis on transparency and responsiveness to public input consistently. Residents anticipate results that could reshape connectivity across the southern region sustainably.

Source: www.msn.com

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