A new stop will be added to Canberra’s light rail network after the Commonwealth Government approved an extension to Commonwealth Park
While the final sign off on the full second stage of Canberra’s light rail project to link the CBD and Woden remains in limbo, there is some good news for users this week with the approval of a new station at Commonwealth Park.
The National Capital Authority granted works approval to extend the light rail network in the nation’s capital one stop further to the south, adding an extra station after Alinga Street to the map.
National Capital Authority chief executive Sally Barnes says the approval was good news for the city.
“This extension will provide a much-needed public transport connection between the city centre and Commonwealth Park and will help to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the city centre,” Barnes says.
Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, says the federal government’s investment will help set Canberra up for future population growth.
“We know our national capital is fast growing – and as we plan for the infrastructure needs of tomorrow, it’s important we ensure the future of this great city is consistent with the National Capital Plan,” King says.
“Through extensive public consultation and careful consideration of the required criteria – that’s exactly what the NCA has done – and work on this nationally-significant project can continue to progress.
“The Commonwealth and ACT Governments will continue to work closely on future stages of Light Rail Stage 2.”
The decision to approve the extra station followed extensive consultation by NCA and consideration of a range of criteria including the quality of the public realm, community amenity, environment, heritage, and landscape values.
The ACT Government as the project builder and owner, will consider and decide on matters relating to transport mode selection, alternative options, and project costs.
The approval does not encompass the broader Light Rail Stage 2B to Woden proposal, and future options put forward by the ACT Government will be considered by the NCA.
ACT Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel says the extension is a step in the right direction.
“The extension of the popular light rail line will transform the southern part of the CBD into a better place for people with public transport connectivity to major employment and recreation precincts in City West, the ANU, City South, Acton Waterfront and Commonwealth Park,” Steel says.
“Now that we have all relevant major approvals for this part of the works, the Government will now shift focus to the detailed planning and design required to determine the future alignment and delivery for the remaining part of the mass-transit line to Woden.”