The ACT Government has welcomed the Federal Government granting environmental approval for the construction of Stage 2A of light-rail from Alinga St to Commonwealth Park.
Minister for Transport, Chris Steel said the approval was an important milestone in progressing Stage 2 of light rail to Woden which will secure more than 1000 jobs.
“Light Rail to Woden will serve key employment, tourist and cultural institutions north and south of Lake Burley Griffin, before extending on to the Woden Town Centre,” said Minister Steel.
“Whilst Federal EPBC approvals have been obtained for Stage 2A including Raising London Circuit, further planning approvals are required for the project from the National Capital Authority and the ACT Planning and Land Authority,” he said.
“The EPBC approval process is also currently underway for the Stage 2B extension from Commonwealth Park to Woden and is expected to take up to 18 months. Studies required for these approvals include detailed analysis of the route, environmental and heritage assessments, and consultation with a range of local and Federal stakeholders.”
In the 2020-21 budget, the ACT Government will invest $2.1 million on early works design to raise London Circuit with construction expected to commence this year.
“Raising London Circuit is a crucial enabling project for light rail Stage 2A, and will improve the urban realm and pedestrian and cycling access between the CBD, City West, Acton and the Acton Waterfront,” said Mr Steel.
The project will raise the London Circuit road level on either side of Commonwealth Avenue taking around two years to complete. It involves changing the current split-level, overpass-underpass configuration into a level intersection.
“The ACT Government is committed to providing a well-connected public transport network, high quality walking and cycling infrastructure and connecting people to our local and regional centres,” said Mr Steel.
