Ministerial Statement: Date set for Multi-Modal Transport Corridor alignment ...

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Minister for Main Roads
The Honourable Craig Wallace
19/02/2010

Date set for Multi-Modal Transport Corridor alignment announcement

Finalisation of the preferred Multi-Modal Transport Corridor (MMTC) alignment for the Sunshine Coast is today a step closer.

Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace has directed his Department of Transport and Main Roads to ensure the further work needed to finalise the preferred alignment is completed by the end of April this year.

Mr Wallace said the Bligh Government had undertaken investigations for the strategic planning of the MMTC corridor from Caloundra Road to the Sunshine Motorway, in particular the section between Parrearra and the Mooloolah River Interchange.

"State Cabinet endorsed the current MMTC corridor in 2001, which includes a 1.8km section along the Mooloolah River between Parrearra and the Mooloolah River Interchange, to the east of Hideaway Waters," Mr Wallace said.

"Following community feedback raising environmental concerns, my department investigated a land-based crossing.

"The department will now conduct a rigorous co st benefit analysis of the two options. This process will recommend if the existing designated corridor should remain the preferred alignment or if the alternative option that is being investigated should become the preferred route.

"I look forward to the government announcing the preferred route by the end of April."

Mr Wallace said the department would consider the significant amount of feedback received from local residents as well as other factors such as environmental and economic impacts when making a decision.

"I understand the lengthy process involved in planning for this major piece of important infrastructure can be frustrating and I assure the community the department is working as quickly as possible on a decision," he said.

"However, given the importance of the alignment selection, we are committed to making an informed and considered decision.

"Once a decision is reached, all affected property owners will be advised of th e outcome as well as the wider Sunshine Coast community."

"The preferred alignment will still be subject to Federal Government approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act."

Mr Wallace said planning for the transport corridor would ensure getting around on the coast is fast and efficient well into the future.

"This project will include road, rail and other transport options to allow people easy, more sustainable access to areas around the Sunshine Coast," he said.


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