Gold Coast's light rail stage four project faces uncertain future amid community consultation

The Queensland government has announced a halt to stage four of the Gold Coast's Light Rail project for community consultation, raising concerns about potential delays and stalling tactics.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie revealed that another round of community consultation will be conducted to reassess the project's impact and viability.

Bleijie criticized the former Labor government for allegedly concealing crucial information about the project's potential effects on over 235 homes.

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However, this information had already been made public in 2021.

Kath Down, from Save Our Southern GC, said it was important the community's concerns are heard and addressed.

"It's up to us the community to make sure we're heard loud and clear and not hoodwinked," she said.

Opposition MP Meaghan Scanlon criticized the government's handling of the project, highlighting the absence of a clear timeline for decision-making.

"The deputy premier can't say when a decision will be made on lightrail stage 4," Scanlon said.

"He says it all depends on what answers Gold Coasters give regarding alternate routes and modes of transport."

Jacqueline Worroll, representing Southern Transport Alternate Routes, advocated for either stopping the project altogether or diverting it to prioritise bus services or alternative routes.

The government has invited public participation through its website.

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.