An LNP Government will expand the stage 4 light rail business case to include planning for the heavy rail connection between Varsity Lakes and Coolangatta Airport.
LNP Leader Deb Frecklington said the heavy rail connection was the missing piece in the planning for the Gold Coast’s future transport needs.
“There has never been a comprehensive plan for public transport on the southern Gold Coast – but the LNP will deliver one,” Ms Frecklington said.
“There is already an existing heavy rail corridor to the Gold Coast Airport and it’s bizarre that Labor’s business case will ignore it.
“Labor’s lack of planning has held back the Gold Coast for years.
“The LNP’s business case will put all the options on the table and deliver a public transport system that busts congestion and creates jobs.
“The southern Gold Coast won’t get a second chance to tackle its transport problems.
“So let’s do it once and do it right.”
Ms Frecklington said the LNP would invest a further $1.5m to expand the scope of the City of Gold Coast – Queensland Government business case on light rail stage 4 and local bus services to also include heavy rail options.
LNP Member for Burleigh Michael Hart said developing a plan for heavy rail would enable all potential routes for light rail stage 4 to be fully considered.
“The LNP’s approach will deliver a plan that busts congestion, meets local needs and improves connectivity between the airport, the Gold Coast and Brisbane,” Mr Hart said.
“Most importantly, the LNP will guarantee that our transport plan includes genuine community consultation. Locals must have a say on the future of their communities.”
Many southern Gold Coast residents have expressed fears that the Gold Coast Highway option for light rail could lead to the loss of car parking and traffic lanes.
LNP Member for Currumbin said it was vital for the Gold Coast to develop a comprehensive, long-term transport plan following broad community consultation.
“Heavy rail must be part of our transport plan,” Ms Gerber said.
“Gold Coast Airport is one of Australia’s busiest and fastest-growing airports and a heavy rail connection to the Gold Coast and Brisbane will help it grow and create jobs.
“The LNP has already committed to investing $550m in a Second M1 and to fast-tracking upgrades to the M1.
“Heavy rail will require further investment from the Federal Government, which is why developing a viable business case is so important.
“Only the LNP has a plan to get the Gold Coast working again.”