Light rail study released

11/1/08
Light rail could have a role in meeting Perth's future passenger transport needs, according to a detailed study commissioned by the State Government.
The Perth Light Rail Study, prepared by engineering consultants Maunsell Australia, has investigated the feasibility of a service linking East Perth and Subiaco.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said copies of the study's final report had been provided to the City of Perth and the City of Subiaco for comment.
"The report found that a tram link between East Perth and Subiaco could be viable and might stimulate commercial and residential development along its route," Ms MacTiernan said.
"It also found that an extension through Subiaco and Shenton Park, to service an expanded QEII medical centre and The University of Western Australia, might also prove practical.
"It said the service could attract patronage of 46,500 trips each week day, based on current usage of Red CAT services and projections for growth along the identified routes.
"While the study found light rail would have an impact on traffic flows and congestion on the route, it suggests that this could be managed."
The Minister said the study estimated the cost of establishing and equipping such a service at about $400million, with another $10million each year to cover operating costs.

"While light rail might improve the timeliness and reliability of services on heavily used public transport routes, it would require a substantial investment from a transport budget that already faces strong demand in many different parts of the City and the State," she said.
"Before any such commitment was seriously considered, there would need to be a thorough examination of alternatives for meeting the transport needs identified in the study and clear signals that the development necessary to justify such infrastructure would be able to proceed.
"It would also be necessary to assess the benefits of this project in the context of other public transport projects that could be undertaken in WA."
Further information is available at http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/lightrail
Minister's office - 9213 6400