The Queensland Opposition has called for the Premier to prove he has a plan for transport on the Gold Coast or risk the city becoming an “Olympic-sized embarrassment”.
It’s been more than nine months since the state government axed Stage 3 of the light rail to Gold Coast Airport and the city is still waiting for a concrete plan for its replacement.
“The Deputy Premier, 289 days ago, scrapped light rail to the border and said there would be a comprehensive transport plan. We haven’t seen anything since then,” Shadow Transport Minister Bart Mellish said.
The Opposition is calling for a range of transport projects to be outlined and funded in the June 23 state budget including the east-west connector between Nerang and Broadbeach, Stage 2 of the Coomera Connector, upgrades to M1 exits on the northern Gold Coast, and the return of planning funding for heavy rail to the border.
“The Gold Coast is growing rapidly, but its transport infrastructure is falling further behind because this Government has no plan,” Mellish said.
“They scrapped light rail to the border, cut heavy rail planning funding and still haven’t explained how locals and tourists will move around the city.
“Without a plan and proper funding Gold Coast’s transport will become an Olympic-sized embarrassment in 2032.”
Shadow Treasurer Shannon Fentiman said next week’s budget would be the chance for the LNP Government to deliver on its big promises.
“The Gold Coast deserves a transport plan that matches its growth and its role in the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Ms Fentiman said.
“David Crisafulli promised to deliver road, rail and public transport in a big way and now is his chance to prove it.”
“Next week’s budget is his chance to prove those words are more than just a photo op.”
