Report predicts thousands of jobs in light rail project
THOUSANDS of construction and ongoing jobs would be created by the Hobart northern suburbs rail-corridor urban development project, supporters say.
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THOUSANDS of construction and ongoing jobs would be created by the Hobart northern suburbs rail-corridor urban development project, say supporters.
A report by consultant GHD outlined a $200 million blueprint to transform urban development along the northern suburbs rail corridor.
The report, revealed by the Mercury and prepared for the Hobart and Glenorchy city councils, found the project would generate 500 to 1000 construction jobs every year for two decades while urban areas were being developed and the rail line modernised.
It would subsequently generate 1500 to 2500 ongoing jobs in tourism, retail and hospitality, it found.
Hobart Northern Suburbs Rail Action Group president Ben Johnston said this showed how valuable the project could be.
“It certainly complements the other benefits the project is putting forward,” Mr Johnston said.
Hobart City Council has provided the report to the State Government.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has said the State Government would need to take the lead if light rail was to become a reality.
Mr Johnston said the State Government needed to take it to the Federal Government for possible funding.
“The State Government claims to be a champion of jobs and new investment and must surely be considering the new findings in what’s looking like an election year,” he said.
Federal independent Denison MP Andrew Wilkie also called on the State Government to approach Canberra.
“The urban renewal aspect is especially important because of the way it will transform the suburbs along the route, encourage property development and improve housing choice, accessibility and affordability,” Mr Wilkie said.
State Greens leader Cassy O’Connor called for a tripartisan push.
“Development along the rail corridor would create real economic opportunities for the South, particularly in the northern suburbs,” she said.
State Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding said light rail wasn’t feasible now but its time would come.
“Our position on this has been consistent – ‘not now’ does not mean ‘not ever’,” Mr Hidding said.
“As confirmed by a number of studies, while light rail is not feasible just now, its time will come.”
State Opposition Leader Rebecca White said Labor supported the rail corridor being maintained for future use.
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