Interfleet Technology has been appointed to assist in the development of the prestigious Gold Coast Rapid Transit project in Australia. The Queensland Government has appointed Interfleet to provide Operations Advisory Services to the project team during both the planning and procurement phases for the 13 km light rail system, designed to further enhance one of the country’s fastest growing cities.
Using its extensive knowledge of light rail, Interfleet will carry out an operations-based review of the existing reference project (Concept Design and Impact Management Plan), to contribute to further refinement and optimisation of the intended operations of the system. David Rollin, managing director of Interfleet commented: “We are delighted to have won this contract, where we will be able to provide a balanced blend of management and technical capability for light rail operations.
“The Gold Coast Rapid Transit project is a key element of the Queensland Government and Gold Coast City Council’s wider plan to address traffic congestion on the Gold Coast, already regarded as one of the country’s premier domestic and international tourism destinations.”
Interfleet will contribute to the development of an Operations Business Plan, develop interface agreements with public utility authorities and traffic management authorities and provide advice during the development of the impact management plans for construction.
Alongside this, Interfleet will also provide advice on safety and accreditation matters in relation to light rail operations, develop an operating and maintenance strategy for the rolling stock, contribute to the development of the customer service strategy, and provide advice on the procurement and management of the selected operator.
The Gold Coast is Australia’s fastest growing city and attracts 9.4 million visitors a year and more than 15,000 new residents a year, with travel demands now exceeding population growth.
Mr Rollin continued: “Studies have shown that the high population density and number of destinations along the rapid transit route would be best supported by the development of a linear light rail system.
“The light rail system will form part of a world class public transport network for the Gold Coast through a fleet of new, modern light rail vehicles operating in a dedicated corridor.”
The project has received tri-government funding support from the Commonwealth of Australia, the State of Queensland and the Gold Coast City Council providing a clear demonstration of its importance on a local, state and national level.
The vision for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit project is to provide a mass transit system connecting the growing population of the Gold Coast as part of wholly integrated public transport network. Stage One of the project will see the delivery of 13 km light rail corridor through an Operator Franchise supported by Early and Enabling Works.
Stage One will connect Griffith University/the new Gold Coast University Hospital to Broadbeach, passing through the key activity centres of Southport and Broadbeach.