The draft Future Transport 2056 strategy outlines improvements for the regional transport network for the next four decades. It is open for public comment until 3 December 2017.
An important focus of the plan is better regional inter-connectivity, enhanced east-west links and easier access to ports and other facilities.
Some regional NSW transport projects to be investigated include:
- light rail/mass transit connections to Tweed Heads and Queanbeyan
- extensions of the electric rail network into Bathurst, Goulburn, Telarah and Bombaderry
- upgrading and sealing major roads like the New England and Sturt Highway
- better connections between regional communities with larger centres
- an express bus trial to better link Lennox Head, Ballina and Lismore
- continuing the Fixing Country Rail program.
Roads, Maritime and Freight Minister Melinda Pavey said freight was also a vital part of this plan, with predictions it will increase 25 per cent regionally by 2056.
“That’s a big number and an even bigger task to manage these increases safely, especially with the regional population expected to top 3.6 million over the same period,” Mrs Pavey said.
“Some of this will be managed through technology-driven improvements, but a lot of it will be through offering customers safe and reliable choices.”
Have your say on the Future Transport Strategy
