Debate needed now on inland rail project future 15 November 2007 | 01:07PM
SIR,
It is time issues of infrastructure were debated by both parties and Everard Compton's invitation [to the party leaders to a debate on the inland rail project] (Lloyd's List DCN News Wire, Monday, November 12) is welcome news.
However, it is necessary to re-examine the selected route for this inland route proposal given the cost, the time factors involved, the geographical problems of the route re flood prone areas in New South Wales and negotiating the ranges near Toowoomba.
Beneficiaries of the line need further examination and better alternatives and links to other corridors.
The Tweed Rail Society believes the New England route and a short 160-km link from Tenterfield to Casino is a far cheaper and regionally beneficial option than the far west proposal.
It would provide a standard gauge rail link direct to Fishermans Island in Brisbane, rather than a truck intermodal option currently mooted for Toowoomba.
Phil Mackenzie,
President,
Tweed Rail Society
