Parker pushes for Parra Road light rail
Image: NSW Greens MP Jamie Parker with State Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian / Photo: Alison Martin
NSW Greens MP Jamie Parker has proposed an expansion of the inner west light rail extensions along Parramatta Rd into Balmain.
Due for completion in 2014, the State Government has approved a 5.6 km extension comprising nine new stops from Lilyfield to Dulwich Hill. But the plan does not include Balmain.
Mr Parker said light rail serves as a superior alternative to the state-backed plan for the WestConnex Motorway. “It will worsen pollution, increase traffic congestion and travel times, while subjecting the inner west to over 10 years of construction work,” he said.
“This plan has been developed in collaboration with transport experts, academics, commuters, business leaders and community organisations. Improving public transport to the inner west and revitalising Parramatta Rd will mean a better, more reliable commute for residents and a boost for local businesses.”
Former Leichhardt Mayor, Maire Sheehan is supportive of Mr Parker’s plan and said support for light rail was growing. She believes it could present a more efficient form of transport for locals.
“If it’s part of a network that essentially is connecting Balmain back into the CBD into a broader network, absolutely, it’s a much more efficient way of moving people,” she said.
“If you wanted to get up and down the street you’re probably going to be able to get up and down there a lot more efficiently on light rail then you will by a car.”
Transport for NSW has nominated several corridors for future light rail expansion in its NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan, including along Parramatta Rd.
“In the short term, improvements in service frequency and bus priority will help us to build a strong customer base for any potential future light rail expansion,” said a spokesperson for Transport for NSW.
Light rail vehicles have a capacity to move up to 300 people, as opposed to 60 people on regular busses. They are marketed as faster, simpler and more reliable than other modes of transport.
Mr Parker has been a long-term advocate for improved public transport in Balmain. He successfully lobbied for the opening of the new Balmain Thames Street Ferry Wharf, which was opened by the Minister for Transport, Gladys Berejiklian last month.
The new $4.9 million wharf is designed to be more accessible, contain more seating and better protection from the elements.
“Despite there being numerous safety checks and improvements over the years, this is the first time the ferry wharf has had a complete overhaul in 170 years,” said a spokesperson for Transport for NSW.
Mr Parker said he is pleased progress has been made in pushing for improved public transport. “I’ve been pleased to see a number of positive changes to public transport in our area in response to representations I’ve made to the Minister [Berejiklian] and the department,” he said.
“Our campaign has obviously had an impact and extending the light rail into Balmain and along Parramatta Rd is the logical and visionary next step.”
By Pat Griffiths
