Government seeks leader for northern suburbs transit corridor

The creation of a project lead job for the Northern Suburbs transit corridor is under fire, with the Opposition saying candidates “won’t even know details of the project they are leading”. DETAILS >>

THE creation of a $132,000-a-year role at the helm of the Northern Suburbs transit corridor development has caused a stir, with the government yet to formalise a plan for the future of the project.

The state government position was advertised at online employment site Seek on Monday and drew a response from Labor.

“After countless reports and reviews, the wheels are finally turning on the Northern Suburbs transit corridor in a secret move by the Gutwein government to appoint a project manager,” opposition transport spokesman Josh Willie said.

Mr Willie said Hobart had waited too long for any progress.

“The Northern Suburbs transit project is completely off the rails,” he said.

“The government have had three years to decide what mode of transport would be used for this project, yet they have decided to do nothing and are now hiring a project lead that won’t even know details of the project they are leading.”

As part of the Hobart City Deal, the federal government in 2019 announced it would provide $25m towards activating the corridor.

Disused railway line in Moonah, part of the Northern Suburbs transit corridor. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

More than two and a half years on, no plan has been unveiled to how the money will be spent.

Last year, a $300,000 consultant’s report highlighted the city-transforming potential of light rail, but stopped short of recommending rail over a dedicated rapid bus link.

The job as project lead has a salary up to $132,000 a year for three years.

“This project has been managed to date through existing resources,” Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said.

“A dedicated position has now been created due to the growing workload of this transformational project.

“The successful applicant will lead the ongoing planning and development of the project.”

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson.

Mr Ferguson said the project lead position was a key role.

“The Northern Suburbs Rail Corridor is a large and complex project with many stakeholders and consultation will be required throughout,” he said.

“The next phase will build on planning work completed to date, and will involve further investigations and detailed project planning, including progressing required regulatory approvals, and determining the approach for procurement and construction.”