29 Jun 2012: SEQ: Train stabling upgrades need to proceed rapidly

[ozbob]

Media release 29 June 2012

SEQ: Train stabling upgrades need to proceed rapidly

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads including improved stabling being a priority (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The current Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program 2010–11 to 2013–14 document (2) suggests that Mayne to Ferny Grove is the only stabling associated upgrade which is planned."

"While this upgrade is welcomed, there are many other worthy projects.  In particular the half-baked upgrade to the Robina stabling facility which was planned to be upgraded from a 5 space to a 10 space facility but cut back to a 7 space facility to save what could only be a small amount of money, could be quickly expanded as much of the work has already been done. This half-baking is the reason why the 5:10am ex-Bowen Hills to Varsity Lakes train, largely a positioning move, cannot be re-timed to 8:46pm where it would delay the onset of hourly frequency by a further hour and surely carry many times what it carries currently.  Similarly, without the stabling upgrades, the proposed increased shoulder peak services cannot be provided."

"An urgent stabling upgrade at Yandina should be considered, where it would prevent the need to stable at Caboolture and Nambour, and reduce freight capacity on the single track.

"Clapham is another proposed and useful stabling location which would also assist with increased service between Roma St and Park Rd counter peak, as well as Kuraby and Richlands trains.

"The final missing piece of the puzzle is Banyo, which would prevent the need for Shorncliffe trains to position via Roma St."

"Train stabling in appropriate locations can reduce the need for out of service running and we are supportive of the current government focusing on this."

References:

1. http://www.scottemerson.com.au/media-releases/panel-delivers-rail-capacity-options.html

2. http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/About-us/Corporate-information/Publications/Queensland-Transport-and-Roads-Investment-Program/Queensland-Transport-and-Roads-Investment-Program-2010-11-to-2013-14.aspx

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

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