Hobart Northern Suburbs Rail Action Group wants to see trains run in the city again

On the 50th anniversary of Hobart’s last passenger rail services, the state government continues to back transforming the corridor for rapid buses. Here’s why.

Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor. Picture: Supplied

The Hobart suburban rail service has been closed 50 years — marking the milestone on Tuesday, and it’s likely to never resume despite a push to do so.

The Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor, where the rail service used to run, has been earmarked for use in the future rapid bus transit system proposed for Hobart.

A concept design of a bus rapid transit station on Algona Rd near Blackmans Bay. Picture: Supplied/Department of State Growth

However, Hobart Northern Suburbs Rail Action Group President Toby Rowallan wants trains to be bought back as a form of public transport.

“Rail is the only thing that will persuade commuters to get out of their cars. Rail is the most environmentally friendly and energy efficient form of public transport,” Mr Rowallan said.

“With Hobart’s traffic congestion amongst the worst in the country, along with the expected demand worsening with the planned stadium, it is becoming urgent that they reverse course and, instead of planning to destroy the railway, reactivate it for the use it was built for.”

Toby Rowallan, president of the Hobart Northern Suburbs Rail Action Group, is campaigning against the conversion of the northern suburb rail tracks into a busway.

Mr Rowallan said rail was needed more so now than in 1974 when the Hobart suburban service was closed.

“Hobart has almost 100,000 more residents now than it did in 1974.

“The old Tasmanian Government Railways suburban service was underfunded, and the trains were old.

“There are many more houses alongside the railway that were not there fifty years ago.”

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources Eric Abetz speaks to the media at parliament Square in Hobart on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.

Transport Minister Eric Abetz said the government would push through with its rapid bus transit plan.

“Rapid buses are the preferred mode for the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor for several reasons, including flexibility, service integration and cost,” Mr Abetz said.

“An energised Transit Corridor will also play a role in supporting transport options to the city, along with established bus and ferry services.

“Transport in and out of the city will also be boosted by major infrastructure works, including the new Bridgewater Bridge, recent Davey and Macquarie Street upgrades, new park and ride facilities and the fifth lane on the Southern Outlet.

“A strategic business case for a rapid bus network is currently being developed, the outcomes of which will help determine the next steps, including a future funding request to the Australian government.”