Light rail promise a shot in the arm for public transport

Thursday, 03 August 2006 21:30

TEC Director Mr Jeff Angel said “Light rail offers a quicker, cleaner and more efficient service than buses forced to fight their way through congested Sydney traffic. It will encourage commuters out of their cars and back onto the public transport network”.

The CBD is a major bottleneck for current bus services for the inner suburbs with poor travel times as a result of heavy traffic and crowded services due to limited capacity. Replacing buses with light rail will not only improve services in the CBD but eliminate a major bottleneck affecting the entire bus network.

TEC has also welcomed the Opposition’s promise to assess extension of light rail to other areas of Sydney and regional cities.

“The increased capacity and more efficient operation offered by light rail makes it an attractive proposition for busy transport corridors such as Parramatta Road, Anzac Parade and parts of Newcastle and Wollongong. Assessing the feasibility of light rail links in such areas is an essential part of proper transport planning”, Mr Angel said.

TEC has called on the Government to immediately match the Opposition’s promise and commit to light rail expansion, along with a partnership with Sydney City Council.

“Public transport is shaping up as a major issue in next year’s State election. It is clear the Iemma Government is out of step with the community on light rail. They must reverse their ill informed opposition to this sustainable transport option”, Mr Angel said.