A PROPOSED light-rail alternative on the Coast has been dismissed because of a massive misjudgment of passenger demand.
A spokesman for Treasurer Tim Nicholls revealed Treasury considered the American Maglev Technology Inc proposal had been well below realistic passenger numbers to justify construction.
“The Department of Transport and Main Roads estimated a 1000% increase on current passenger demand along the proposed route would be needed to make the proposed rail line viable,” the spokesman said.
“AMT’s proposal did not demonstrate a passenger need for the rail line, and any proposal requiring government funding must clearly demonstrate need.
“Additionally, any proposal that requests an exclusive mandate (such as AMT’s), needs to demonstrate that the public would not achieve better value for money from a competitive tender process.”
Sunshine Coast Business Council chairwoman Sandy Zubrinich said she thought all private sector infrastructure proposals should be given due consideration given the economic climate and the need for innovation in future infrastructure.
“It’s hard to get private sector funding at a regional level and it’s a pity to see credible investors not being listened to,” she said.
Ms Zubrinich said the business council had been requesting an integrated transport plan to incorporate the Coast’s longer-term future from 2030 to 2050.
She lamented the fact that light rail would not begin to be utilised until at least 2025 – if State Government funding could be achieved.