The Queensland Government has completed its review of the proposed Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 4 (GCLR4) project, today announcing a strategic shift towards direct bus service enhancements and broader regional transport planning.
It follows extension consultation, with more than 5,600 submissions revealing a strong desire for cost-effective, flexible transport options that respect the natural environment and protect key local landmarks like Burleigh Head National Park and Tallebudgera Creek.
Key findings from the independent review include:
- Significant concerns over “Labor’s sham consultation process that focused on a single option with over half of respondents indicating they hadn’t been properly consulted”;
- Nearly two thirds of respondents to the consultation expressed negative sentiment towards the project;
- Probable further time and cost blowouts, with the project potentially costing up to $9.85 billion, far exceeding Labor’s previously reported cost of $2.7 billion and their subsequent blowout cost of $7.6 billion;
- Local residents support improved bus services as a cost-effective and flexible solution;
- The local community wants transport solutions that respect the natural environment and key local landmarks, such as Burleigh Head National Park and Tallebudgera Creek.
The Government says it will deliver enhancements to bus services while directing the Department of Transport and Main Roads to undertake a multi-modal transport study for the Gold Coast region amid ongoing community consultation.
This study will explore broader regional transport needs, including airport connectivity and alternative routes, ensuring the southern Gold Coast is well-prepared for future growth.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, thanked the Southern Gold Coast community for voicing their views and their extensive engagement with the review process.
“After a sham consultation from the former Labor Government, this independent review revealed that locals want well-connected transport options that integrate into the existing infrastructure without disrupting the unique character of their community,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“Unlike Labor who treated the community with disdain by withholding details on property resumptions and carpark losses, locals were able to have a fully informed say following the release of previously hidden documents.
“The Crisafulli Government made a clear commitment to listen to the Southern Gold Coast local community at the election and today that commitment has been delivered.
“This is about ensuring transport infrastructure projects are delivered in partnership with local communities to protect what they value most in their community and their lifestyle.”
For more details on the review findings and next steps, visit www.qld.gov.au/futuretransport.
