Rail provides missing link

THE Property Council has put its support behind the Government’s plan for the new Mandurah rail line.

The State Government unveiled its plans this week for the $1,403 million project – $15.5 million more than the original budget.

Property Council executive director Mr Joe Lenzo said the new plan removed two major barriers from the CBD.

“The Government has delivered a revised rail master plan that will see historical development shackles removed from Perth,” Mr Lenzo said.

“The Government has wisely taken the opportunity offered by the rail project to facilitate the development of Perth into a better city for residents, businesses and tourists.”

The Southern Rail link will give the CBD better exposure to Perth’s growing southern area, which is expected to account for 40 per cent of the city’s population growth over the next five years, he said.

Dr Gallop said cabinet had endorsed the route for the South West Metropolitan Railway from the Narrows Bridge to Perth Central station recommended by the Perth City Rail Advisory Committee.

“Not only is this the best decision for public transport users, it is also the best decision for the future of the city,” Dr Gallop said.

Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Alannah MacTiernan said the plan was a triumph for extensive consultation on major infrastructure decisions.

Royal Australian Planning Institute WA managing director David Caddy said the proposal was a “great solution”.

“I think it’s an excellent solution compared to where we were in February,” he said.