Cross River Rail Project

[v6hilux]

There is NO doubt in my mind the CRR would have been well under construction right now, if it wasn't for the Federal Government, with the help of Campbell Crimeman stealing the Acacia Ridge to Bromelton rail corridor for Inland Rail only. Now a new, non-existant rail corridor with private land resumptions will need to be made to cater for the passenger rail to Greater Flagstone region that was the key to CRR being built.

[SurfRail]

^ I don't follow that at all.

Any inland rail alignment will make provision for passenger tracks.  That's the entire point of the resumptions being planned - room for everything, so there is no need to share tracks in the same the way so much of the rest of the passenger system is compromised.

Flagstone is hardly a raison detre for CRR to be built anyway.  Rail in that direction isn't contemplated for decades and is well behind other extensions in terms of priority.

[v6hilux]

The lack of future-proofing has really let down Brisbane commuters.

Development in all directions has been booming - the whole system is not a complete failure though, just in the current rapidly developing areas where the majority of people are moving to, not acreage lots, but tiny homes on lots as small as 180 sqM.

Anyway, something stinks with what happened way back to stop the "shovel ready" CRR 1.0. Was it all the suburban land resumption, subsequently sold again, or was it the Fed Gov and it's pressure on the Neuman Gov to give the southern Interstate corridor up for Inland Rail? 120,000 homes in the State Gopv EDQ declared ares have started to pop-up on the land and there is still no PT.

[SurfRail]

I sincerely doubt Inland Rail had ANYTHING to do with CRR being cancelled considering the ALP was in control of Canberra when Newman was elected and when CRR was cancelled.  Check your dates!

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/CrossRiverRail/status/1026716678086742016

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Major new development means The Gabba's back in the game


The redevelopment will include a pedestrian bridge across Main Street outside the Gabba.

BRISBANE'S transformation into a New World City will receive yet another boost, with a major redevelopment of the out-of-favour Gabba sports stadium and the entire surrounding suburb.

In a move that will almost completely remake the Woolloongabba area, the State Government will today announce that the Landcentre building, South Brisbane Dental Hospital, and GoPrint sites will be transformed to create a premier entertainment precinct.

The State Government's pet project — Cross River Rail — will be part of the dramatic redevelopment of the inner-city of Brisbane, with a number of projects set to benefit.

The Queen's Wharf casino, the Brisbane Live entertainment centre, and the Howard Smith Wharves are due to finish in coming years, along with the new and improved Gabba.

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad will today announce $2 million for a business case to kick off the long-awaited redevelopment to the Gabba and surrounding areas, which she says will unlock the potential for $1.5 billion in private investment.

The project will include a raised pedestrian bridge across Main Street that would link the underground Cross River Rail to the redeveloped stadium, which is currently serviced only by bus.

"Cross River Rail isn't just a rail line, it's a project that is going to transform our entire region," Ms Trad said.

"When Cross River Rail is complete, Woolloon­gabba will be just minutes by train to the new Albert Street station in Brisbane's CBD and near the growing health, science and education precinct at Boggo Road.''

While the actual seating capacity is not expected to change, the Gabba will get updated players' facilities and a modern fit-out, along with an improved external appearance.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she expected better public spaces to attract more families to major events.

"Two million dollars has been approved as part of the Cross River Rail project to begin planning and start the consultation process with potential investors and the community," she said.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/eastTMoore/status/1031073707685367809


^  this is a good article, well worth a read.

[ozbob]

SBS News --> Gabba to benefit from Cross River Rail

The Queensland government says a development proposal to tie in the upcoming Cross River Rail proposal with Brisbane's Gabba sporting stadium has the potential to revitalise the ageing facility.

The government on Sunday announced $2 million for a business case for a pedestrian access bridge linking the Gabba to the current busway stop and the future site of the Cross River Rail stop at South Brisbane.

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said the integration of the iconic stadium into the Cross River Rail project was always part of their plans for the precinct.

"We know that there will be a return of government investment on this development, because there will be opportunities for residential, commercial and key worker accommodation development," Ms Trad said on Sunday.

Ms Trad said the eventual cost of the project was estimated at $100 million, but the tender process would allow the market to determine the final figure.

The redevelopment would feature a raised pedestrian bridge over Main Street, cutting out the need for pedestrians to wait at multiple sets of traffic lights.

It would also involve a major redevelopment of the adjacent block including the old Landcentre and GoPrint sites, which will be used as marshalling areas for the Cross River Rail tunnel borers.

It's expected that redevelopment would be timed to coincide with the opening of Cross River Rail in 2024.

The Gabba has come under scrutiny in recent years for having sub-par facilities, which saw it recently relegated by Cricket Australia behind Perth and Adelaide's stadiums in the national pecking order.

State Sports Minister Mick De Brenni admitted the development plans announced on Sunday didn't specifically include an upgrade of the Gabba itself, but said it would allow it to happen in the future.

"Ultimately there is little point doing any of (the stadium upgrades) until we actually deal with the connectivity issue," Mr de Brenni said.

The minister confirmed they would also take naming rights for the Gabba to the market to see if there was interest.

He stressed any name change would include the word "Gabba" which he said was "iconic."

Cricket Australia Board member and former international player Michael Kasprowicz welcomed the announcement on Sunday, saying it put the Gabba on the path back to greatness.

"Whilst there's a couple of shiny new stadiums around the country I think the Gabba has to be up there," he said.

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2018/8/19/get-on-board-with-gabba-station-redevelopment

Media Statements

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
The Honourable Jackie Trad

Sunday, August 19, 2018

Get on board with Gabba station redevelopment

Cross River Rail's new station at the Gabba will be the catalyst for a transformation of access and transport to Brisbane's iconic sporting precinct.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad has today unveiled an exciting concept for the future of the precinct around the Gabba including a land bridge to span Main Street providing a safe and vibrant 'front door' for sports fans.

Ms Trad said fans will begin accessing the Gabba via the new Cross River Rail underground station in 2024 which would also facilitate the remake of the whole 6.5-hectare Woolloongabba site.

"Cross River Rail isn't just a rail line, it's a project that is going to transform our entire region," Ms Trad said.

"When Cross River Rail is complete, Woolloongabba will be just minutes by train to the new Albert Street station in Brisbane's CBD and close to the growing health, science and education precinct at Boggo Road.

"Plans are for the whole city block, which includes the Landcentre, old South Brisbane Dental Hospital and Goprint sites, to be completely transformed over the next decade.

"It has the potential to attract up to $1.5 billion of private investment and that's a really exciting opportunity for local industry.

"The Gabba has been the scene of many great sporting triumphs and we know, through Cross River Rail, it will continue to be an integral part of Queensland culture for generations to come."

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said investment in Cross River Rail unlocks a unique opportunity at Woolloongabba.

"$2 million dollars has been approved as part of the Cross River Rail project to begin planning and start the consultation process with potential investors and the community over the coming months," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"While a station to stadium connection will make game days easier for fans and families, new and improved public spaces and facilities will encourage even more visitors to the suburb outside of major event days.

"Cross River Rail will enable turn-up-and-go frequency public transport across the network, meaning fans from across SEQ will find it even easier to jump on a train and get down to support the mighty Brisbane Lions or the Brisbane Heat."

Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni said the plan to greatly enhance the Gabba came from feedback from our sporting bodies, leading sports stars and local residents.

"The Gabba is 'internationally renowned' without a doubt, but it can be re-elevated to 'world's best' if it was easier to get to - and transport connectivity is simply an expectation of modern spectators that has to be met," Mr de Brenni said.

"Going forward, we are rolling up our sleeves in collaboration with all stakeholders to give fans a great experience – one that will rival the freshest stadiums in the nation.

"In possibly the best outcome of this precinct, the opportunity to leverage both the Gabba and the Station could deliver up to 300 new affordable homes designated for key and essential services workers including nurses, teachers, police and fire officers and hospitality and tourism workers."

The Cross River Rail Delivery Authority will now work with key stakeholders including Brisbane City Council, Stadiums Queensland and the Department of Housing and Public Works to develop a precinct plan for the new Gabba Station.

ENDS

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1032009445939785728

[ozbob]

https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/hansard/2018/2018_08_22_DAILY.pdf

Queensland Parliament Hansard

Ministerial Statements

Cross River Rail, Woolloongabba Precinct Redevelopment

Hon. JA TRAD (South Brisbane—ALP) (Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships) (9.42 am): <I am pleased to update the House on the
significant progress being made on Queensland's highest priority infrastructure project, Cross River
Rail. This transformational $5.4 billion project, fully funded by the Palaszczuk government, will unlock
the bottleneck at the core of the public transport network, allowing more trains to run more often. Cross
River Rail will enable the extra network capacity required to operate a turn-up-and-go rail service that
connects with other public transport services. That will help to ease the pressure of road congestion,
making our capital city and the whole of South-East Queensland even more liveable. However, Cross
River Rail is much more than just a transport project; it is a city and region shaping investment that will
trigger a wave of urban renewal opportunities.

On Sunday, alongside my colleague the Minister for Sport, The Hon. Mick de Brenni, I unveiled
new precinct concept plans for Woolloongabba. Cross River Rail will be a catalyst for revitalising the
precinct around the new underground station and the much-loved Gabba will benefit enormously in the
process. Better transport connectivity is crucial to developing a world-class stadium precinct that
incorporates residential and commercial opportunities.

When Cross River Rail is operational, Woolloongabba will be just a few minutes from the CBD,
making it the perfect location for new mixed-use residential and commercial developments. The design
concepts unveiled on the weekend include a stadium-to-station land bridge spanning Main Street,
creating an impressive new front door for the Gabba. The concept includes a new stadium plaza
forecourt with bars, cafes and restaurants.

Over the next decade the 6.5 hectare Woolloongabba site will be transformed, with the potential
for up to $1.5 billion worth of private investment to be attracted to the area. With a new urban village at
its heart, Woolloongabba will feature at least 300 new affordable residences. Those would be ideal for
key workers such as nurses, teachers and emergency services workers. Woolloongabba has
undergone some urban renewal over the past decade, but it is important that over the next decade
potential redevelopment takes into account key community interests. More importantly, those views
must be considered in the planning process to ensure any development is done in a balanced way.
For the Gabba, one of the highest priority issues is access to public space and green open
spaces. Under the concept plan I unveiled on Sunday, the precinct will have a significant net increase
in open space, including a public plaza and green spaces. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity,
so getting it right is vitally important. That is why I have asked the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority
to work very closely with all stakeholders to ensure their views are taken into account. In November, a
full public consultation process will be undertaken to gauge the views of the local community and the
broader community. I am pleased to see some initial feedback has been positive, including from the
RACQ and Bicycle Queensland.

We are getting on with the job of delivering Cross River Rail. It is a much needed infrastructure
project that will not only unlock the rail bottleneck but also unlock substantial investment opportunities
that strengthen the economy and provide future employment opportunities. It is only by investing in
transformational infrastructure such as Cross River Rail that these types of urban redevelopments are
possible.

[Stillwater]

I don't know why Trad and Co. didn't go for a City Deal with the Federal Government re CRR.  It better suits that funding bucket because of all the other things attached to it - Brisbane Live, Gabba Upgrade etc,.

[longboi]

I don't know why Trad and Co. didn't go for a City Deal with the Federal Government re CRR.  It better suits that funding bucket because of all the other things attached to it - Brisbane Live, Gabba Upgrade etc,.

Because a Lib government would never sign up to that

[ozbob]

Some employment opportunities  ..

https://smartjobs.qld.gov.au/jobs/QLD-286025

Principal Events Communication Officer
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority
Brisbane City

The Event Communications Officer will be responsible for the planning and management of all event and experiential marketing activities at a local community level and across South East Queensland to increase the project's social licence. The position reports the Executive Director of Marketing and Communication and plans and manages the Delivery Authority's presence at community events.

=======================

https://smartjobs.qld.gov.au/jobs/QLD-286028

Senior Social Media Officer
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority
Brisbane City

The role requires skills and experience in sourcing and writing engaging content to achieve the objectives of social media strategies for the respective social media channels, and monitors and reports on the performance of the organisations social media accounts. The role also requires the ability to establish and maintain productive relationships with various business units across the Delivery Authority as well as external stakeholders, including other government departments. This role reports to the Executive Director, Marketing and Communication, and serves as the primary contact for all aspects of the Delivery Authority's social media.

[BrizCommuter]

^ Jobs for the spin doctors!

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/CrossRiverRail/status/1034695880782143489

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/CrossRiverRail/status/1035409053441187840

[verbatim9]

In reference to the Cross River Rail project; Many businesses are moving out by March 2019 at Roma Street in preparation for the demolition of the transit centre and Hotel Jen.

[verbatim9]

In reference to the Cross River Rail project; Many businesses are moving out by March 2019 at Roma Street in preparation for the demolition of the transit centre and Hotel Jen.

I went to the feedback session today opposite platform 10, in reference to the Transit Centre coach relocation, to the lower Roma Street Parklands promenade opposite platform 10.

There will be flashing lights along the road to alert drivers of cyclists. On the upper promenade their will be improvements to the shared zone.

They have advised of 70 coach movements per day.

As for aesthetics there will passenger information displays at each bay, a small ticketing office (as most ticketing done online and sent to phone for scanning) and improved amenities.

The cycling group is yet still to meet with the CRR Authority. The authority is closely working with TMR''s pedestrian and cycling guidelines to ensure the best possible outcome.

Work on the new coach bay area will begin this October and be completed by June next year.

[red dragin]

Be interesting to see how it works. Not the most bus friendly access from either end, let alone interstate coaches.

[burgo]

How are the bus station platforms 1 and 2 effected during demolition?

[verbatim9]

How are the bus station platforms 1 and 2 effected during demolition?

I guess they will be at some stage, temporary closures no doubt?

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Cross River Rail residential development height still up in the air

Demolition work has been completed at Woolloongabba to make way for the new Cross River Rail station and the concept plan has been released, but just how dense the development in the area could be remains undecided.

The Priority Development Plan for Woolloongabba, published in 2010, stated high-density development of up to 30 storeys would be allowed in parts of the precinct.

A concept plan of the 6.5-hectare precinct surrounding The Gabba was released in August and included 200 new affordable homes and the potential for the area to attract up to $1.5 billion in private investment.

This week, Cross River Rail Delivery Authority chief executive Graeme Newton revealed the density of the area was yet to be decided.

"The current PDA is quite generous in that regard [building height]," he told a Property Council lunch audience.

"The design at the end of the day and the way it works ... it's got to fit with the amenity of the town centre and I think that's where we're looking at at the moment."

Mr Newton said areas such as St Pancras at Kings Cross Station in London had been reviewed as part of the process.

"When you first hear about it [St Pancras] everyone talks about Google," he said.

"But what very well struck me was the mix that was in there, the nature of the user and how that was just activated and how it wasn't just left to chance it wasn't just handed back over to the local council and hoped that the open space would be used.

"They had mixed use of residential where if you look at the different towers you really couldn't tell which was the affordable accommodation and which was the high-rent accommodation."

Mr Newton said he hoped some government tenants would take up space in buildings within the mixed-use precinct.

"I think one of the first cabs off the rank will be the commercial aspect of it and high probability of a government tenant," he said.

The Cross River Rail underground Woolloongabba Station is expected to be operating by 2024.

[verbatim9]

Construction fencing up at the back of Roma Street Station for the new intercity bus terminus/ststion

[verbatim9]

Today's pics @ Roma Street

[ozbob]

AFR --> $5.4b Cross River Rail to 'change the face' of Brisbane

The man in charge of building Brisbane's biggest infrastructure project, the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail, has said he has learnt the lessons from the infrastructure delivery of big rail projects in Sydney and Melbourne and will deliver it on time and on budget.

Cross River Rail chief executive Graeme Newton, the former boss of the $12 billion Queensland Reconstruction Authority, which helped rebuild the state after natural disasters, said the major delivery of contracts for the 10.2 kilometre rail duplication would be locked in by mid-2019.

After a decade of uncertainty under successive state governments over whether the project would proceed – and who would pay for it – Mr Newton wants to focus on the future for the project he says will transform the Queensland capital.

The Cross River Rail will provide a crucial underground river crossing – 35 metres below the surface – and is aiming to unblock the commuter bottle-neck in a city that is almost more renowned for its sporadic development than its brown snake-like river.

"Cross River Rail is about the context of the city and its development. It will help turbo-charge other developments in the city. By 2025, the whole face of Brisbane will have changed," Mr Newton told The Australian Financial Review.

"People were still a little bit sceptical about this project last year and this time last year we had an election campaign and it was only the second last day of the campaign when the [Liberal National Party] Opposition said they would proceed with the project subject to timing, but now we are getting on the front foot and industry is behind us."

Cross River Rail is part of a $15 billion infrastructure boom in Brisbane over the next five years that includes Star Entertainment Group's $2 billion Queen's Wharf integrated resort and casino, the Howard Smith wharves redevelopment and Brisbane's new runway.

The Palaszczuk Labor government is hoping to use the Cross River Rail project to undertake redevelopment in Woolloongabba in Brisbane's south, near the famous Gabba sporting ground, and the eye-sore Roma Street transit centre, which they are hoping to turn into a 17,000-seat entertainment stadium. The Brisbane City Council's $944 million Metro project will also link with the Cross River Rail.
Long wait

The state Labor government waited for years for the federal government to step up to contribute funding the project, which will also be delivered in part as a public-private partnership. After argy-bargy with the federal Coalition government, the Palaszczuk government finally bit the bullet last year and announced it would fund it on its own.

Treasurer Jackie Trad has committed $2.8 billion over the next four years to Cross River Rail, with the remaining to come from the private sector as well as government contributions. Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has also committed a future Labor government to $2.24 billion, which will help replace some state funding.

The three major contracts for the Cross River Rail include the Tunnel, Stations and Development public-private partnership (which is essentially the greenfield tunnels and the stations),  the Rail, Integration and Systems alliance (connecting into the existing Queensland Rail network) and the $634 million European Train Control System project. They are expected to be finalised early next year.

The three main consortiums short-listed for the tunnel construction include a CIMIC Group-led consortium called Pulse (which includes Pacific Partnerships, CPB Contractors, UGL, BAM, Ghella and DIF), the Qonnect group of QIC, Capella Capital, Lendlease, John Holland and Bouygues as well as the CentriQ Partnerships consortium of Plenary Group, Acciona, GS Engineering and Construction, Salini Impreglio and Spotless Group.

With big consortiums also involved in Sydney and Melbourne Metro projects – which are a few years ahead of Brisbane – Mr Newton was initially worried about whether the depth of talent in bidding teams would stretch to Brisbane's Cross River Rail.

But with bid teams of more than 150 people, Mr Newton is confident their expertise will deliver a project that will learn the lessons from their southern neighbours, including problems with Sydney's trouble-ridden light rail project. He said there would be a much more "engaged and interactive process" with bidders to avoid problems down the track.

"You do have a degree of trepidation because of what's happening in Sydney and Melbourne, but there has been a lot of engagement with bidders. Normally in a field of three you do have one who is not cutting the mustard, but we are happy with all three. There is a strong appetite for this project," he said.

"We are like a closer follower of the Sydney and Melbourne projects so we are getting a lot of the lessons learned from their projects and implementing them here."

[Stillwater]

Mark these words from the AFR article: "Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has also committed a future Labor government to $2.24 billion, which will help replace some state funding."

So, the state is putting in $2.8 billion over four years, of which $2.24 billion is preplaced with Commonwealth funds should Labor win federally.  Previously, the Bill Shorten money was for operating costs, not construction costs.

[v6hilux]

At the time I wasn't thinking about CRR or the Busway/s that will service it, but I read through every 2018 QLD QLD Gov Gazette to date and there was heaps of land resumptions notices in relation to CRR and the Busway. Too many pages to look through to find it again, but the info is there if you are interested;

https://www.forgov.qld.gov.au/2018-gazette-listings

[ozbob]

^ thanks V6hilux ..

Meanwhile ..

Brisbanetimes --> Tussle over a key Cross River Rail contract's due dates

The state opposition has claimed the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail project is up to eight months behind schedule in awarding a key contract.

But the Queensland government insisted there was absolutely no delay in the project.

A commercial-in-confidence market sounding materials report from August 2017, seen by Brisbane Times, says the Rail, Integration and Systems contract was due to be awarded in October 2018.

However, Cross River Rail chief executive Graeme Newton last week told the Australian Financial Review the project's three major contracts would be awarded in the first half of 2019.

The RIS contract is responsible for connecting Cross River Rail into the existing Queensland Rail network.

The August 2017 report, developed by the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority, provided "proposed timeframes for key activities for the primary works packages with a focus on the procurement phase and early delivery phase", apparently given to industry as indicative dates.

"These dates are subject to refinement," the report said.

LNP deputy leader Tim Mander said the government was "failing miserably" to deliver what it had promised.

"This puts serious doubt on this Labor government's ability to deliver their pet project by 2024, as stated in their own business case," Mr Mander said.

"When it comes to major infrastructure projects, Labor have a track record of budget blow-outs, delays and costing taxpayers millions of dollars in the process."

However, a spokeswoman for Treasurer Jackie Trad said the RIS contract had not been delayed.

"Formal bids will be assessed by the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority in a formal assessment process and a recommendation made to the government in the first part of 2019 for its consideration," she said.

The spokeswoman said the three major contracts - the $634 million European Train Control System; RIS alliance; and the Tunnel, Stations and Development public-private partnership - would be awarded throughout the first half of 2019, and locked in by mid-2019.

Asked if that meant the awarding of the RIS contract was eight months delayed, the spokeswoman said: "No."

Asked if this meant the expected completion date of 2024 for Cross River Rail was in doubt, the spokeswoman said: "No."

Cross River Rail's total cost of $5.4 billion had also not changed, she said.

Two consortia have been shortlisted for the RIS alliance contract:

    River City Alliance: Laing O'Rourke, GHD, Aurecon, SYSTRA Scott Lister
    Unity Alliance: CPB Contractors, UGL, Jacobs, AECOM

Cross River Rail is a 10.2-kilometre rail line between Dutton Park and Bowen Hills, which includes 5.9 kilometres of tunnel under the Brisbane River and CBD.

It will include four new underground stations at Boggo Road, Woolloongabba, Albert Street and Roma Street, as well as upgrades for the Dutton Park station and Exhibition station.

In June 2017, the Queensland government committed to fully funding Cross River Rail.

It was first announced by the Beattie Labor government more than a decade ago, in March 2007.

[kram0]

Seems like the LNP are just playing politics, but I would not be too concerned by this as they all try it on. But I am sure we will all be happier once we see TBM's in the ground. Bring on 2024.

[aldonius]

"Eight months behind schedule"

More like six years.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Trad defends cash-for-access meeting with Cross River Rail bidding company

Queensland Treasurer Jackie Trad has defended meeting with a short-listed bidder for Cross River Rail at a cash-for-access Labor event.

Ministerial diary notes reveal Ms Trad and ministerial staff met with the Plenary Group on September 1, during this year's Labor state conference.

Plenary Group is part of a consortium which has been short-listed for the Cross River Rail's tunnel, stations and development contract.

During question time in Parliament, LNP leader Deb Frecklington accused Ms Trad of breaching probity rules, and said the meeting appeared to be held without a probity officer being present.

"Why did the Treasurer hold an $11,000 cash-for-access meeting with a company at the same time the Treasurer is actively considering that company to be awarded billions of dollars of government contracts?" Ms Frecklington asked.

Ms Trad said Ms Frecklington's categorisation of the event was "absolutely incorrect".

"There was no discussion with anyone in relation to the Cross River Rail project," she said.

"I ensured that there was a staff member present and notes were taken of that meeting."

Ms Trad said she had complied with Cross River Rail probity processes at all times.

She tabled protocols, which stated state meetings should not be held with bidding organisations to discuss issues relating to the Cross River Rail project without notifying the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority chief executive.

If an interaction did occur, for example while attending an event, with any of the bidders, Ms Trad would be prevented from specifically discussing the project.

Ms Trad said the meeting with the Plenary Group was transparently published in her ministerial diary.

"That meeting was largely social in nature and there were no issues of substance discussed that required formal notes or any follow-up action," she said.

"The Cross River Rail project was not discussed at this meeting in accordance with the probity protocols."

Ms Trad said the successful consortium would be chosen based on the strength of their offer in meeting the state's requirement for Cross River Rail.

"The Cross River Rail Delivery Authority which is an independent authority ... is doing the assessment of all of the bids," she said.

The Cross River Rail Delivery Authority will make its recommendation on the bids to the government to sign-off in the first half of 2019.

A Plenary Group spokeswoman said the company attended policy forums and other events on both sides of politics where policy and infrastructure issues were discussed.

"Our focus is to gain a current understanding of infrastructure policy direction," she said.

"We do not discuss procurement processes."

Ms Frecklington also questioned whether Ms Trad sought advice from the probity officer before talking about Cross River Rail during a lunch in New York in September hosted by the Queensland Investment Corporation, which was also a shortlisted bidder.

An official travel report says matters discussed included: "The $45.8 billion capital program over the next four years that will drive jobs and economic opportunities with major [projects] such as Cross River Rail."

Ms Trad said the post-budget Queensland Treasury Corporation and QIC roadshow had been held every year since Sir Leo Hielscher was the under treasurer.

"QIC has been a part of this program for many years and they were a part of this program this time," she said.

"I have made it clear to absolutely every single participant in the consortiums, in the alliance, that there will be no discussion by me or any member of my staff in relation to this project and their bids."

Ms Frecklington said the LNP had written to the probity auditor about its concerns.

"[This] could expose the government to legal action from unsuccessful bidders," she said.

"That will only cost the taxpayers of Queensland hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars and that is distressing.

"The Treasurer has some serious questions of integrity, accountability and trust to answer."

Ms Frecklington said Ms Trad should have kept notes of the Plenary meeting, discussed it with the probity officer or had the probity officer in the room.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/CrossRiverRail/status/1068029538628554752

[verbatim9]

https://twitter.com/CrossRiverRail/status/1068029538628554752

Great video! A very exciting and unique transformation for Brisbane.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/railbotforum/status/1070943247193653248

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/CrossRiverRail/status/1073095257867186176

[verbatim9]

Community Feedback re Roma Street demolition until Dec 21.

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Cross River Rail: Albert St underground station becomes PDA

THE State has taken control for planning in a key part of Brisbane's CBD as it prepares to build a new underground station for Cross River Rail.

Treasurer Jackie Trad revealed this morning the state had declared a Cross River Rail Priority Development Area to deliver the new CRR underground station in Albert Street.

"The $5.4 billion Cross River Rail will unlock the bottleneck at the core of the transport network allowing more trains to run more often by enabling a world-class turn-up-and-go transport network with benefits across the whole of South East Queensland," Ms Trad said in a statement.

"Albert Street will be the first CBD station built in 120 years and will dramatically improve connectivity to the southern part of the CBD, opening new access routes to city attractions and key business precincts."

Acting Planning Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the PDA covered two land areas on the corner of Albert and Mary Streets in Brisbane's CBD.

He said an interim plan would be in place while a development scheme was prepared.

Minister and McConnel MP Grace Grace said the community would have the chance to have a say on any proposed development scheme next year.

"This new station fundamentally changes how people will move around the city with the project to support council's plans for a green spine which would run along Albert Street connecting Roma Street Parklands through to the City Botanic Gardens," Ms Grace said.

"The station will become the main pedestrian feeder point for Queen Street Mall, QUT's Gardens Point campus, the Parliamentary precinct, the new Queen's Wharf Brisbane development and an upgraded Eagle Street business district."

Albert Street station Fast Facts

- The 220-metre long station will be constructed 31 metres below Albert Street

- Albert Street is the deepest Cross River Rail station.

- It's expected that around 67,000 people will use the new station each week day by 2036.

- When Cross River Rail is complete a trip from Albert Street to The Gabba would take around three minutes.

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http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2018/12/14/cross-river-rails-albert-street-station-pda-declared

Media Statements

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
The Honourable Jackie Trad

Friday, December 14, 2018

Cross River Rail's Albert Street station PDA declared

The Palaszczuk Government has today declared a Cross River Rail Priority Development Area (PDA) to support the delivery of the new underground Albert Street station in the heart of the CBD.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad said the Government was getting on with the job of delivering the major infrastructure Queenslanders need now to serve our growing population into the future.

"The $5.4 billion Cross River Rail will unlock the bottleneck at the core of the transport network allowing more trains to run more often by enabling a world-class turn-up-and-go transport network with benefits across the whole of South East Queensland," Ms Trad said.

"Albert Street will be the first CBD station built in 120 years and will dramatically improve connectivity to the southern part of the CBD, opening new access routes to city attractions and key business precincts."

Acting Planning Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the change would cut red tape for the delivery of the station.

"The PDA covers two land areas on the corner of Albert and Mary Streets in Brisbane's CBD with an Interim Land Use Plan to be in place while a development scheme is prepared for the site," Mr Hinchliffe said.

"This is another step towards construction and provides the eventual contractors and the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority with the necessary powers to deliver the station and surrounding areas."

Member for McConnel Grace Grace said Cross River Rail was a game-changer for her community.

"This new station fundamentally changes how people will move around the City with the project to support Council's plans for a green spine which would run along Albert Street connecting Roma Street Parklands through to the City Botanic Gardens," Ms Grace said.

"The station will become the main pedestrian feeder point for Queen Street Mall, QUT's Gardens Point campus, the Parliamentary precinct, the new Queen's Wharf Brisbane development and an upgraded Eagle Street business district.

The community will have an opportunity to comment on the proposed development scheme for the Albert Street PDA when it is publicly notified during 2019."

A copy of the Albert Street CRR PDA Interim Land Use Plan can be viewed at  https://www.dsdmip.qld.gov.au/albert-street

Albert Street station Fast Facts

    The 220-metre long station will be constructed 31 metres below Albert Street
    Albert Street is the deepest Cross River Rail station.
    It's expected that around 67,000 people will use the new station each week day by 2036.
    When Cross River Rail is complete a trip from Albert Street to The Gabba would take around three minutes.

ENDS

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane Transit Centre businesses seek compo ahead of eviction

Family businesses that have been operating on month-by-month leases at the Brisbane Transit Centre for more than a decade are now asking for millions in compensation, after being told to vacate by March 20.

The Brisbane Transit Centre at Roma Street will be demolished as part of the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail project, with a new underground train station and the Brisbane Live entertainment precinct being built in its place.

Some businesses in the Transit Centre food court will leave by the end of this month, others by mid-February. The dental clinic will close by March.

Lendlease-managed property trust, Australian Prime Property Fund, owned the Brisbane Transit Centre and Hotel Jen until it was acquired by the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority in December 2018.

Hotel Jen ceased trading on December 15.

The Roma Street Brisbane Transit Centre will be progressively demolished from the end of the year, following the selection of the Cross River Rail design in mid-2019.

Many businesses expressed quiet frustration with Lendlease after being told they must all be out by March 20.

Most small businesses are now negotiating with either Lendlease or the CRRDA to finalise their compensation agreements.

Some businesses had been told not to talk to the media, others were prepared to talk in general, while others said their compensation talks were "not too bad, but what can you do?".

Brisbane Times understands the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority is now working through more than 40 individual compensation claims for the businesses.

The CRRDA will cover the businesses relocation costs, business transition costs - within reason - and allow businesses to make business expense claims for three years, a senior source said.

Louise Alberts has run the coffee stall on the third floor bus lounge on a month-by-month lease for three years.

Ms Alberts said she had to close by August, when the third-floor bus arrival and departure lounge was due to close, before she shifts to the northern side of the Roma Street train station.

She said her compensation talks were "pretty good".

"But I don't think they realise a lot of us are family-run businesses and we aren't paid when we have to move on," Ms Alberts said.

Lara Smit has run the Transit Centre Newsagency for 26 years. She said almost all businesses were negotiating their way out of the centre with the CRRDA.

"I think everybody is," Ms Smit said.

"There are different tenancies. Everybody is different, with different spaces and different leases."

Pack and Walk owner Pram Kisho has run his Asian food business in the food court for more than three years.

Mr Kisho had a three-year lease in the Transit Centre food court, which was set to expire in 2020, but has been asked leave by March 20 this year. He plans to leave by the end of January.

Mr Kisho said compensation talks were "good" with the CRRDA.

"It is a bit hard for us, but it is good for the government," he said.

"We are asking for compensation, we all are."

The old bus coach terminal, on the third floor of the Brisbane Transit Centre, was due to close in July.

While demolition and construction work is under way, it will be shifted to a temporary facility for up to 10 years at a ground-floor section of Parkland Crescent, on the Wickham Terrace side of Roma Street train station.

This new temporary facility, next to train platform 10, was expected to be operational by July.

The temporary coach centre will have just five coach bays, compared to the 30 at the existing Brisbane Transit Centre bus terminal.

A new permanent bus and coach centre is being planned as part of the upgraded Roma Street station.

The new complex is planned to be completed by 2025.