Chief Minister Kate Carnell has
announced the ACT, NSW and Commonwealth Governments have received Speedrail Limited's
detailed submission for the operation of a high-speed rail service between Canberra and
Sydney.
In August 1998, the three Government's announced Speedrail was the preferred proponent to
finance, build and operate the fast train service. Prior to making final decisions, the
government's required Speedrail to complete a 'proving up' stage, in which the company
provides greater detail on issues such as project viability,
infrastructure requirements, technical operations and project funding.
Mrs Carnell said the very high-speed train project provides governments with an
opportunity to work with the private sector to provide internationally competitive rail
infrastructure, and at the same time deliver tangible benefits to regional Australia.
"The construction of a high speed rail service through southern New South Wales will
provide many jobs and services to the region. It has
long been a priority for the regional leaders in Southern NSW."
"The project presents a number of significant opportunities for regional Australia.
There are expected to be around 15,000 jobs created
directly and indirectly, during the construction phase of the project and 2,000 once the
service is operating. Almost as important is the introduction of high quality passenger
rail services to regional NSW and the ACT and the opportunity for broad economic
benefit."
The lodgement of this detailed proposal brings the proving up stage to a close. The ACT,
NSW and Commonwealth Governments will now evaluate this detailed submission with a view to
making decisions during the first half of 2000. It is anticipated it would then be
possible for
construction to commence in 2001 and be completed by 2005.
ENDS |