Over 75 per cent of Gold Coast residents support the construction of a further stage to the city’s light rail network, according to the results of an independent survey.
Stage 3A is the proposed extension of the Gold Coast’s light rail system from Broadbeach South light rail station to Burleigh Heads. Trams will run in the centre of the Gold Coast Highway with planning for up to eight stations and a journey time of 16 to 17 minutes.
An online survey, a phone survey and four group discussions, conducted by independent market research specialists on behalf of the Queensland government, found that 86 per cent of support Stage 3A and 72 per cent of Stage 3A corridor residents and 80 per cent of corridor businesses support future light rail extensions.
“If there was ever proof needed of how out of touch those LNP Gold Coast MPs who don’t support Light Rail Stage 3A are, like Michael Hart and Ray Stevens, this is it,” state transport minister Mark Bailey said.
“There is no doubt that Light Rail Stage 2 is one of the greatest Labor public transport legacies here in Queensland, with the 7.3 kilometre G:Link delivered in record time and under budget, and catering for more than 1 million trips during the Commonwealth Games.
“Since Stage 2 opened, light rail patronage has increased by 33 per cent, and I’m confident Stage 3A, once built, will mirror that success.”
Community drop-in sessions have also been conducted the register community opinions.
“At the drop-in sessions, 169 written responses were submitted, and feedback generally focused on localised issues and how the project may impact communities along the 6.7-kilometre alignment,” Bailey said.
Feedback is being documented by the Stage 3A project team to inform the detailed business case for Stage 3A. The reference design maps used at the drop-in sessions provided new information and 3D animated visuals to inform the community about the proposed light rail line along the Gold Coast Highway.
The detailed business case is being prepared by the state government in partnership with the City of Gold Coast and will reportedly be completed by the end of 2018.