Hundreds of southern Gold Coast residents have turned out to a community forum to express their concerns about the light rail extension to Coolangatta.
It comes as a survey of residents shows the vast majority of residents oppose Stage 4 down the Gold Coast Highway and want heavy rail instead.
The forum was hosted by federal LNP MP Karen Andrews, state LNP MP for Burleigh Michael Hart and Councillor Daphne McDonald
The survey of 1150 residents in Palm, Beach, Tugun, Currumbin and other southern suburbs was conducted by Ms Andrews’ office.
Of those surveyed, 86 per cent were concerned about a negative impact on the southern Gold Coast environment and lifestyle.
A massive 89 per cent said they would not use the light rail for their daily commute while 85 per cent believe heavy rail should be the priority.
Ms Andrews says residents just want to be heard.
“Quite frankly, they have been demanding that for quite some time now. Now, it is shameful that the state minister responsible has not seen fit to turn up here and listen to them,” Ms Andrews said.
“The concerns that people are raising are very legitimate. They’re asking about car parking, they’re asking about what the changes are going to be to the Gold Coast Highway, they’re asking for consideration of their concerns.”
IMAGE: Supplied
Councillor Daphne McDonald claims light rail running down the Gold Coast Highway would “rip the guts” out of Palm Beach.
“Why should we destroy a suburb for any public transport? We know that we have to have public transport, but the route of the public transport is the issue,” Councillor McDonald said.
Transport Minister Mark Bailey has hit back at the criticism of Stage 4 and his refusal to meet with residents.
“Karen Andrews has said that she supports it going to the airport, but she doesn’t support it on the Gold Coast Highway,” Mr Bailey said.
“So she should be honest and transparent and tell people where her preferred route would be because it will inevitably mean hundreds of resumptions of people’s houses.
“We’ve got two choices gridlock or a strong public transport system and, light rail is absolutely part of that solution.”
The latest public outcry comes as momentum grows for a decision to be made on Stage 4 as soon as possible in order for it to be finished by the 2032 Olympics. .
Mayor Tom Tate has previously said he would like to see work on the Coolangatta extension get underway as soon as Stage 3 to Burleigh is complete.
During a visit to the Gold Coast this week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he would work with the state on Stage 4 but would not yet commit to funding it.
