Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3A community consultation on Broadbeach to Burleigh route

THE $660 million third stage of the Gold Coast light rail will carry passengers from Broadbeach to the heart of Burleigh Heads. Here’s how you can have your say on the next big project.

PATRONAGE on the Gold Coast light rail has spiked significantly above expectations, according to new data released ahead of the Stage 3A business case.

The number of people using the trams has increased 33 per cent in just eight months, according to new figures revealed by the State Government.

More than 51,000 extra passenger trips have been recorded on the tram system since stage 2 came online in December, building momentum behind the proposed Stage 3A which will run from Broadbeach to Burleigh.

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The Gold Coast Light rail has proven popular Picture: Jerad Williams

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More than 5.2 million trips were taking on the light rail in the six months after trams began running to Helensvale.

And Gold Coasters will be able to get their first look at the propose route down the Gold Coast Highway as part of community information sessions.

Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said feedback from residents would be considered as part of the detailed business case now underway.

“Community consultation is a vital part of any project of this size, and we are keen to hear from locals to help inform this process,” she said.

Ms Scanlon said the existing light rail routes had been an incredibly popular hit with locals and visitors to the Coast.

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The light rail path along the Gold Coast Highway. Photo: Supplied.

“The light rail has already proved to be an iconic and transformational project for the Gold Coast,” she said.

“Light rail was integral to the hugely successful Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Transport plan, carrying nearly 100,000 passengers per day during the Games.”

The state and council last year put $5 million each towards the business case, which is expected to be finalised by December.

The council has already committed some of its expected $66 million contribution in its strategic reserve budget.

During the consultation, locals will be able to view maps of the reference design for the proposed route in the centre of the Gold Coast Highway as well as proposed station locations, traffic lanes and intersection changes

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey. Pics Adam Head

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Transport Minister Mark Bailey urged locals to take part in the consultation.

“As we saw during the Commonwealth Games in April, trams can carry many more people while occupying less road space than cars.

“Without a change in how people move around the city, continued high levels of car dependency will result in further road congestion and associated delays.

“Trams generally travel in a separate corridor, not on the road, making tram services a more reliable choice for commuters.”

“Population growth continues to place increasing pressure on the city’s road network which is why planning for this extension of the light rail system is essential.

Mayor Tom Tate said council had consulted with the community in 2015 and 2017.

“The community has told us loud and clear that they want this extension. I commend the state for investing $5 million into this final design,’’ Mayor Tate said.

“Council has also committed $5 million and it is now the chance for the community to have a final say on the route and features of Stage 3A.

“The Burleigh Heads and Nobby Beach precincts can benefit from urban design elements as part of the project, including enhanced landscaping, cycle ways and improved pedestrian connectivity.”

HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads Surf Club, Cnr Goodwin Tce and Gold Coast Hwy

• Wednesday 15 August 6pm to 8pm

• Saturday 18 August 11am to 1pm

Mermaid Beach

Mermaid Beach Surf Club, 172 Hedges Ave

• Wednesday 22 August 6pm to 8pm

• Saturday 25 August 11am to 1pm