InfrastructureHarrison CaithnessMon 22 Jun 26
Qld Reveals Bus Plan to Replace Axed Gold Coast Light Rail Stage
The Gold Coast’s light rail network will be extended with a 3.2km line in the north while articulated buses will replace the cancelled Burleigh-to-Coolangatta stage, the state government has revealed.
The new line will connect Harbour Town to the Gold Coast University Hospital’s G:Link station.
Three stations will be built along the line—Musgrave Avenue, Labrador and Biggera Waters.
A new depot will be built as part of the plan, and additional rolling stock acquired.
The Crisafulli government last year axed the 13km Stage 4 of the light rail network, which would have connected Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta via Gold Coast Airport, in September of last year.
At the time it cited strong community support for cost-effective, flexible transport options and preservation of natural local landmarks Burleigh Heads National Park and Tallebudgera Creek as the reasons behind that decision.
Now, the state has revealed plans for The GC Surfer [concept rendering, top], “metro-style vehicles [running] every 10 minutes between Robina, Varsity Lakes, Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast Airport, and Coolangatta”.
The vehicles—articulated buses—will “deliver a modern, efficient and sustainable transport solution, with further upgrades along the corridor will support faster connections to Gold Coast Airport,” it said.
The state said the projects would be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the projects would make it easier for commuters and tourists to get from one end of the Gold Coast to the other and reduce road congestion.
The cost of both projects is due to be revealed when the state budget is handed down on Tuesday, June 23.
