Extension of rail network to SW corridor

Perth's rail-based public transport system will be extended to Kwinana, Rockingham and Mandurah.

The proposal has been included in the State Government's economic development strategy outlined by Premier Carmen Lawrence this week.

Transport Minister Pam Beggs today said the decision to extend the network followed a special study that looked at a number of public transport options for the metropolitan region's south-west corridor.

Further development of the proposal also had been included in the State Government's submission to the Commonwealth for funding under the Better Cities program.

"The study included a cost-benefit analysis that showed a rail system was justified on the basis of building to Rockingham by 1996 and to Mandurah by the year 2000," Mrs Beggs said.

"The region's current population of 230,500 is expected to increase by around 200,000 over the next 30 years and it is imperative that the necessary infrastructure such as improved public transport systems are designed and built to fit in with this growth.

"The south-west corridor is highly self-contained compared with the rest of the metropolitan area," Mrs Beggs said.

"The existing development provides a good base for establishing a high level of accessibility to work, shopping, education and leisure activities.

"And it is the accessibility factor within the region as well as transport to other regions that needs to be taken into account when planning for the future."

Mrs Beggs said a steering committee had examined three transport options - extending the existing heavy rail system, building a light rail network, or building special busways.

The study had indicated the rail alternatives would cost between $246 million and $263 million.  The busway, which was not favoured because it would not attract the associated development in the same way as rail systems, would cost around $218 million.

Mrs Beggs said the next phase in the project would be a more detailed analysis of the rail alternatives.

"As part of the commitment to the proposal, the Government soon will announce details of further feasibility, planning and design studies," she said.

"These studies will include a comprehensive information program so that local residents are involved in the planning and design phases.

"As well, the Government will introduce the necessary legislation into Parliament later this year so that an appropriate transport reserve can be set aside."