Redland City, June 24, 2024 — In a significant move to enhance transport infrastructure and connectivity, the Redland City Council has committed to advocating for better transport outcomes for the Redlands Coast.
Council advocates for improved transport and mobility
This decision was solidified at the Council’s recent General Meeting, where members resolved to submit their recommendations to the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) regarding the Queensland Government’s Bayside and Redlands Transport and Mobility Study.
Mayor Jos Mitchell emphasised the importance of the study, which aims to pinpoint essential transport initiatives that will serve the region up to 2046.
This initiative comes in response to the projected urban development and growth highlighted in the Queensland Government’s South East Queensland Regional Plan Update, known as Shaping SEQ 2023.
“For the past two years, Redland City Council officers have been active participants in a working group alongside other key stakeholders, exploring potential transport solutions and strategies to meet current and future demands,” Mayor Mitchell stated. “TMR has conducted community consultations for this study and will take into account feedback from the Council.”
The Council’s submission, endorsed this week, outlines several critical issues that they believe the Queensland Government should address as the study progresses.
The study area includes the Redland City mainland and parts of Brisbane City, specifically east of the Gateway Motorway and south of the Brisbane River. Notably, it excludes the Moreton Bay islands and the eastern tip of Logan City, despite these areas being integral to the transport network extending from Redland City.
The submission advocates for the inclusion of transport needs for island residents, visitors, and business operators, highlighting the significant challenges faced at both island and mainland landing areas.
The Council stresses the need for a collaborative approach between the Queensland Government and the Council to address issues such as inadequate access by various modes of transport, increased holiday parking demands, and congestion at barge queues.
Connectivity and Infrastructure Recommendations
Furthermore, the Council’s submission recommends that the study addresses several key connectivity and infrastructure issues, including:
- Enhancing connections to the Coomera Connector and Logan Motorway.
- Improving public transport services from Redland City to Loganholme and the Staplyton/Beenleigh area.
- Reviewing the capacity of Rickertt Road/Quarry Road as a crucial route linking Redland and Brisbane cities.
- Conducting a strategic review of the current road network to prepare for anticipated growth in travel and transport needs.
- Addressing transport requirements for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, such as duplicating the Cleveland rail line between Manly and Cleveland and extending the Eastern Busway from Stones Corner to Capalaba. In the short term, the Council urges the government to prioritize the provision of passing loops on the Cleveland line by duplicating tracks at Ormiston and Birkdale stations.
- Prioritizing upgrades at major intersections to improve safety for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and those with limited mobility.
- Securing funding to enhance the pedestrian and cycling network between and within centers and for connections between Redland and Brisbane cities.
- Including trips on ferry services to Minjerribah and Coochiemudlo Island in the six-month trial of 50-cent capped fares for bus, train, and ferry services.
- Promoting initiatives that encourage a shift away from private vehicle use to reduce road congestion and increase the demand for public transportation and parking solutions.
The Council’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to ensuring the transport needs of Redland City and its residents are met effectively, paving the way for a more connected and accessible future.
For more information, contact the Redland City Council or visit their official website.
Contact:
Redland City Council Website
Phone: (07) 3829 8999
Email: council@redland.qld.gov.au
News and image source: Redland City Council
