Faster Rail project moves slowly ahead

The $5.75 billion Logan to Gold Coast Faster Rail project is one step closer after the State Government shortlisted major contractors who will compete for the job.

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The project, which is jointly funded by the State and Federal governments, will double the number of tracks between Kuraby and Beenleigh, allowing for more train services.

The works will speed up the journey between Gold Coast and Brisbane, and improve safety by removing crossings at Kuraby, Woodridge, Bethania, Holmview, and Beenleigh.

Image courtesy of tmr.qld.gov.au

The works and the shortlisted companies have been divided into three packages:

• ActivUs consortium (consisting of CPB Contractors, Acciona Contractors, UGL Engineering, SMEC Australia and WSP Australia) and Activate consortium (consisting of John Holland Queensland, Aurecon Australasia and AECOM Australia) have been shortlisted for the LGC Rail Package.

• Two joint ventures have been shortlisted for the LGC OLCR Package – Beilby Holdings with JF Hull Holdings, and BMD Constructions with Fulton Hogan Construction.

• ADCO Construction, DT Infrastructure and the joint venture of Martinus Rail and Degnan have been shortlisted for the Loganlea Station Relocation Project.

These groups will have six months to develop their proposals for the individual project packages, including design, construction plans and cost. The State Government plans to announce the successful bidders later this year.

Queensland Transport Minister Bart Mellish said the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail scheme was a critical project for improving transport times. “Shortlisting proponents to deliver these works is an important and exciting step towards a major upgrade on our South East Queensland rail network,” he said. “Once finalised, all of these projects will help to connect our growing communities with more frequent and reliable train services between Brisbane, Logan and the Gold Coast.

“The additional tracks will also mean more services can run, allowing customers to arrive at new, modern and accessible train stations and spend less time waiting on the platform for a train to arrive.”