Planning chair Mark Hammel expresses concern over review of light rail stage four to Airport

The Gold Coast’s planning chief has expressed concern over the state government’s review into light rail, warning the ongoing debate could harm the city.

The state government’s review of light rail stage four to Gold Coast Airport is holding up city planning during a housing crisis, a senior councillor has warned.

City Planning chair Mark Hammel will spell out his concerns at a Northern Chamber of Commerce debate on Friday about the Gold Coast’s role in the 2032 Brisbane Games.

“It is concerning to me that we are still debating the mode and corridor for the fourth stage of the Gold Coast Light Rail, particularly this close to the Olympics,” Mr Hammel said.

“Whether it is light rail or another form of rapid transit, we need a firm decision and full funding commitment now.

“This project is not just about the Olympics – it will help move people efficiently across the city and provide a lasting transport solution for our city and region.”

Council planning chair Mark Hammel. Picture: Glenn Campbell.

Mr Hammel said the Gold Coast currently had about 700,000 residents with the number to grow by about 300,000 people by the mid-2040s.

“Without clear investment in public transport now, we risk falling behind in delivering the infrastructure and services our city needs in the future. It is all about connectivity, whether that be locally, across the city or into the southeast Queensland region,” he said.

“Having a better public transport system locked in and fully funded will allow the city to plan for future growth along the corridor and establish east-west transit connections that will be critical in the coming decades. This is the kind of Olympic legacy that will genuinely benefit the Gold Coast in the long term.

“Speaking as the city’s planning chair, the lack of clear public transport commitment is holding up our city planning during a housing crisis.

“We need certainty on things like light rail, east-west rapid transport corridors, heavy rail to the airport, and active transport corridors to ensure we plan for our city’s future growth.

“And importantly, give certainty to those looking to invest in our city by building much needed housing, commercial and industrial infrastructure.”

The light rail station at Broadbeach South.

Mayor Tom Tate last month said he was “open and persuadable” to using buses instead of trams between Burleigh and Gold Coast Airport as light rail’s Stage 4 extension faces an unclear future.

Asked about alternatives to the tram extension, Mr Tate – who remains steadfast in working with state government on a Stage 4 business case – confirmed that buses were on the agenda.

The key was getting improved public transport to the airport before the Games.

Gold Coast North Chamber of Commerce president Josephine Kadel said Brisbane 2032 was a once-in-a-generation opportunity for all of Queensland, not just Brisbane.

“This event unites key leaders to ensure the Gold Coast contributes meaningfully to delivering an Olympic and Paralympic Games with a lasting legacy,” she said.

“The 2018 Commonwealth Games proved what the Gold Coast is capable of. With established infrastructure, a thriving tourism sector, and global appeal, we are in a strong position to support Brisbane 2032 and ensure the Games are delivered cost-effectively and efficiently.

“We are not just talking about two weeks of sport, we are talking about the long-term impact of these Games on infrastructure, tourism, business, and our way of life.”

The Broadbeach South light rail station.

Ms Kadel said the Gold Coast was an economic powerhouse ready to contribute to ensuring the benefits of Brisbane 2032 were felt for decades to come.

“Over the past year, our city welcomed 12.4 million visitors, contributing $7.7 billion to the economy. When people visit Queensland, they look beyond Brisbane to our thriving coastal and regional destinations – reinforcing the value of a state-wide approach to these Games,” she said.

“Brisbane 2032 will be remembered for more than just sport – it will be remembered for the way it transformed Queensland’s future. The Gold Coast stands ready to be part of the solution, ensuring the economic ripple effects extend beyond the closing ceremony.”

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Originally published as Planning chair Mark Hammel expresses concern over review of light rail stage four to Airport