Former Queensland Treasurer Tim Nicholls still not a supporter of pre-2018 Gold Coast light rail extension

THE former Queensland Treasurer who refused to commit to pre-2018 construction of Gold Coast light rail stage two remains critical of the process which would see the project launched in time for the Games.

LIGHT RAIL

THE former Queensland Treasurer who refused to commit to pre-2018 construction of Gold Coast light rail stage two remains critical of the process which would see the project launched in time for the Commonwealth Games.

Shadow Infrastructure Minister Tim Nicholls said the LNP had “always supported a second stage of the Gold Coast light rail” — but was unconvinced the current government could pay for it.

Mr Nicholls’ comments follow fears the connection of the system to heavy rail at Helensvale before the Commonwealth Games could be scuttled if an early election is called.

Prime Minister of Australia Malcolm Turnbull paid a visit to the Gold Coast to announce his backing of the second stage of the Gold Coast light rail network. Picture: Scott Fletcher

Although the State has approved the nearly-completed procurement process for the system, it cannot sign off on construction until a successful bid has been selected.

A pre-election caretaker mode would prevent the government from signing the contract which could be worth up to $500 million.

The connection to Helensvale will finally link the Gold Coast business districts to Brisbane by rail and will also service 14 Commonwealth Games competition and event venues.

Mr Nicholls said the government had not explained how it would fund the project which also has in-principle support of $95 million from his federal counterparts and $55 million from the city council.

A Gold Coast tram on the Sundale Bridge. Picture: Mike Batterham

“We’re yet to see any sign of a business case for the project under this government,” he said.

“Early election speculation by the Premier creates nothing but uncertainty for this project, businesses and the Gold Coast community.”

The government has said it would fund its share of the project, which the former government did not lobby their Federal counterparts to fund, through savings found in the existing Department of Transport and Main Roads budget.

Transport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe this week said the project was “on track and on schedule”.

“The delivery of stage two is possible thanks to strong lobbying by the Palaszczuk Government to secure federal funding support,” he said.