Premier Mike Baird says a northern beaches train line ‘needs to be considered’ in long-term plan

PREMIER Mike Baird has given the strongest indication in decades that a rail line is part of future plans for the peninsula saying it “needs to be considered”.

Premier, Mike Baird says a train should be part of the peninsula’s long-term plans. Picture: Jonathan Ng

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• Metro train touted from Frenchs Forest to Chatswood

PREMIER Mike Baird has given the strongest indication in decades that a rail line is part of future plans for the peninsula saying it “needs to be considered”.

It came in response to Mackellar Liberal MP Jason Falinski’s push to start planning for a metro rail line from the soon-to-be-completed Northern Beaches Hospital to Chatswood.

But Mr Baird said any rail line would likely not be for another 30 years.

“We are undertaking a record investment in roads and public transport on the beaches with a $500m B-Line and $400m spend on Wakehurst Parkway and Warringah Rd,” he said.

“Plus the Mona Vale Rd upgrades, but we obviously need to plan for the long term.”

He said rail would need to come as population increased.

Last year the NRMA said a rail link to the northern beaches could be on the cards.

“Clearly density would be a consideration for the northern beaches as we consider the timing for a metro rail.

“There is no doubt in the long term, that is something that needs to be considered.

“As part of that we would welcome the federal contribution in terms of funding.”

Plans unearthed in 2002 showed designs created by then-co-ordinator general of rail Ron Christie.

It showed an arm of rail extending from Chatswood to Dee Why, which was touted for the “extreme long-term”. Mr Baird would not be drawn on the designs.

Jason Falinski makes his debut speech in parliament.

But Planning Minister and Pittwater MP Rob Stokes said it was more likely to be an extension of the Sydney Metro, which is being constructed.

The first stage is the North West Rail Link from Chatswood to Rouse Hill.

“There are plenty of planning frameworks to talk about this stuff, we are redoing the long-term masterplan for transport NSW,” Mr Stokes said.

“We will be doing that next year, and that is where we will be having these discussions.”

He said no proposal had been brought to him, but said he was open to options.

“Now is the time to start asking the questions, and thinking about it,” he said.

“The council, in co-operation with the State Government, is looking at the advanced stage of finalising plans for Frenchs Forest around the hospital.

“Obviously now is the best time to have chats with the Federal Government about ways we can collaborate on a metro extension.”