12 September 2018
Business SA welcomes Adelaide Airport’s Master Plan, which allocates land for a potential future light rail corridor, as we can see the widespread benefits for the South Australian community.
Business SA Executive Director Industry and Government Engagement, Anthony Penney, would like to further encourage the State Government to remain open to extending Adelaide’s network of trams, including connecting commuters to the airport and western suburbs.
“In Business SA’s 2018 Charter for a More Prosperous South Australia, we outlined our support for a future airport tram link as a key feature in building the state’s brand as a world-leading tourism destination,” Mr Penney said.
“Not only would this link provide quick and easy transport into the CBD, it could also provide additional access to Henley Beach, leveraging off the existing link to Glenelg, and ensuring Adelaide’s two premier beachside destinations both have tram access.”
While funding for an airport tram link may not be available in the immediate future, Mr Penney said the State Government should consider a potential WestLINK now, to ensure that as the remaining North-South Corridor is upgraded, future infrastructure needs to allow for a tram to pass through can be met.
“While funding for an airport tram may not have been allocated, the State Government should consider this as a medium-term priority and at a minimum, should make provisions to facilitate tram access across the North-South Corridor,” he said.
“Starting the planning process early, such as holding community consultations, would also ensure that the groundwork to create an optimal tram route could be completed and ready to go if and when State or Federal Government funding became available.”
When the State Government first proposed GlobeLink while in Opposition, Business SA recognised it was a bold plan and might only be viable with sufficient export growth. However, we didn’t outwardly oppose GlobeLink and we ask the State Government not to rule out a future airport tram link for Adelaide.
To arrange an interview or for further information, please call Verity Edwards on 0412 678 942.