State Government commits to activate unused rail line

A consultant is being sought to determine the best way to deliver an effective transport service along Hobart’s unused rail corridor.

An artist’s impression of the Hobart light rail proposal.

THE State Government has pledged its commitment to activate Hobart’s rail corridor and will undertake a study into how to best utilise the disused rail line.

From tomorrow, the Government will advertise for a transport consultant to undertake a study into the best way to deliver an effective transport service along the corridor, which connects Hobart to Brighton.

The study will consider infrastructure needs within the existing corridor, the ideal surface the particular vehicle type would travel on and station requirements.

Signalling considerations and integration with other transport options, including beyond Macquarie Point, will also be looked at under the study.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said the project would encourage the uptake of public transport to reduce traffic congestion.

“The project will also support urban renewal on property along the transit corridor,” Mr Ferguson said.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

The Federal Government this year committed $25 million to the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor through the Hobart City Deal, yet over $100 million is expected to be required to get the project off the ground.

“That is why this scoping study is so important,” Mr Ferguson said.

“It’s extremely important to note that the Morrison Government has provided this funding in advance of the developed option giving certainty that activation will occur.”

Mr Ferguson said the State Government expected the study be completed by the middle of next year.

“Once the Government receives the study in the first half of 2020, we will be in a position to map out the path to deliver our commitment,” he said.

“This is yet another example of the Hodgman Government working with our Commonwealth colleagues to deliver for Tasmanians.”

It comes as the state and federal governments this week announced they would create a new $576 million Bridgewater Bridge by 2024 under the $1.6 billion, 10-year city deal.

Glenorchy Mayor Kristie Johnston on the rail line through the city. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

Glenorchy Mayor Kristie Johnston said a light rail service through Hobart’s northern suburbs would provide “significant transport benefits”.

“Importantly, it would connect northern parts of Hobart with the CBD and really drive tourism,” she said.

“It’s really important for our city on a number of fronts, including our economic development, and I think we’re blessed to have an existing rail there to use. In terms of capital costs, already having the corridor there would make it significantly cheaper to implement.”

Mrs Johnston said private sector developments, such as the $200 million Windermere Bay residential development located nearby the rail corridor, would largely benefit from the introduction of a rail service.