A transport vision for the southern Gold Coast has been released by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, after a two-year study into potential transport options for the corridor.
The Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Department’s comprehensive study had identified a range of potential transport options including the preferred extension route of the next stage of light rail, from Burleigh to Tugun along the Gold Coast Highway to the airport.
“The study also suggests that, once completed, the M1 upgrade between Varsity Lakes and Tugun could reduce traffic on the Gold Coast Highway, presenting new opportunities for pedestrian and bike-friendly boulevards at Palm Beach, Currumbin and Burleigh,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
She said the findings set the focus for the next phase of infrastructure investment on the Gold Coast, which included major M1 upgrades and the Gold Coast Light Rail project.
“Connecting light rail to the airport is also really important for a 2032 Olympics bid,” she said.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the highway route for the next stage of Gold Coast Light Rail would simplify planning for future heavy rail extensions on the Gold Coast between Varsity Lakes and the airport.
“The current preserved width of the heavy rail corridor next to the M1 means we can’t accommodate future extensions of both light rail and heavy rail along that route,” Mr Bailey said.
“Directing light rail along the highway protects the M1 rail corridor for its principal use as a future heavy rail connection to the airport.”
The study found the Gold Coast Highway between from Burleigh Heads to Tugun could be transformed into a high amenity community-focused boulevard with priority given to walking, bike riding and the light rail system.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads’ vision can be accessed at this PS News link.
