Light rail study funding absent from state budget

New-found interest from the Minister for Transport in extending Sydney’s light rail corridor was questioned in Parliament last week by The Greens, who wanted to know why no funding for a feasibility study was earmarked in the state budget.

The Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal, took the question on notice which aroused The Greens’ suspicions.

Transport Minister David Campbell had publicly committed to funding a light rail study, for which City and inner west councils have already allocated $60,000.

However the budget earmarked $600 million for the controversial CBD mini-metro which would duplicate an extended light rail line for much of its route, and nothing was included for the light rail study. The duplication of the route opens the possibility of the light rail operators Veolia Transport suing the government for compensation if the Metro takes their passengers.

“The failure to allocate money in the budget for the light rail study throws doubt on Transport Minister David Campbell’s commitment to the project. Premier Nathan Rees needs to speak out in support of light rail,” said Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon.

“With no earmarked funding in this budget, it looks like Mr Campbell’s support for the project may be a tactic to cool the strong community campaign for light rail.”

However Mr Campbell has fired back at The Greens, reiterating his intention to fund the study.

“No one knows how to deliver a political stunt better than the policy-bereft Greens,” he said.

“The next step in considering an extension to the Light Rail is to assess the details of a proposal, including proper costings, the patronage potential and how the extension would integrate into the public transport network.

“As I have said, the Government will be undertaking an assessment of extending the existing light rail line and I have written to the various Mayors of Leichhardt, Ashfield and Marrickville Councils to seek their assistance and contribution.

“I am awaiting their replies, but with a firm commitment from the Councils, the Government will be able to proceed with this study. Funds for the Government’s share of a cost assessment is included in the Ministry of Transport’s overall budget, rather than a single line item.” said Mr Campbell.

Lee Rhiannon remains sceptical.

“Inner West residents are fed up with NSW Labor reneging on transport promises. The government risks further electoral damage if Mr Campbell’s support turns out to be hollow,” she said.

Veolia Transport is also one of two companies bidding for the right to operate Sydney Ferries, which are set to be turned over to private management.

by Michael Gormly