The Queensland Government and the City of Gold Coast announced a critical upgrade to a section of Goldmine Road in Ormeau, a move seen as essential to the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP).
This collaborative effort will involve the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and the City of Gold Coast sharing the funding responsibilities for the design and construction work, the government said in a media release.
The upgrade, combined with the development of the rail facility entrance, aims to minimise disruptions for the nearby school, residents, and road users.
Addressing community concerns, the Queensland Government emphasised the importance of reducing the impact of the rail facility on Goldmine Road.
Key features of the upgrade
The early design of the Goldmine Road upgrade includes several significant improvements:
Widening of Existing Lanes: The road will be expanded adjacent to the City of Gold Coast’s upgrade at Lahrs Road.
New Asphalt Surface: The current road surface will be replaced with new asphalt.
Improved Flood Immunity: New drainage systems, kerbs, and channels will be installed to mitigate flood risks.
Active Transport Options: Off-road shared user paths will be constructed to encourage walking and cycling.
New Intersection for Rail Facility Entrance: A new intersection with dedicated turning lanes will be created to maintain traffic flow.
Enhanced Pedestrian Safety: Dedicated pedestrian crossings will be installed at the rail facility entrance.
The project is still in its preliminary design phase, with construction expected to begin in late 2025.
Ongoing traffic assessments will determine whether the rail facility entrance requires signalisation. TMR will keep the local community informed as the project progresses.
Site investigations, including surveys, ecological studies, and asphalt testing, are scheduled to commence in late August 2024 to inform the final design.
The Ormeau rail facility, which will serve as a hub for train maintenance and stabling, is already under construction. This facility is a key component of the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program, which is projected to support 1,300 jobs throughout its duration.
Glenn Butcher, Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “The Miles Government is proud to deliver the QTMP; a program that is bringing train manufacturing back to Queensland.”
Reflecting on community feedback, Butcher noted, “In late 2023, we asked people for their insights and feedback on the Ormeau rail facility concept design, and minimising the impact on Goldmine Road was the most common feedback we heard.”
He added, “We are proud to partner with the City of Gold Coast to deliver this upgrade, which will improve safety for all road users in the local area. The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program is creating local jobs right here, right now, and will continue to benefit our community.”
Local impact and support
Gaven MP, Meaghan Scanlon, underscored the local benefits, saying, “We’re doing what matters for the Gold Coast, investing in better roads and public transport.”
She continued, “Right across the city, Gold Coasters are seeing the Miles Government deliver the second M1, major M1 upgrades, the next stage of light rail, and three new train stations. This new facility will play an important role in the growth of our train fleet and network, all of which will benefit our Gold Coast.”
Donna Gates, acting mayor of the City of Gold Coast, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader impact of the project: “The second stage of the Goldmine Road upgrades ensures the fast-growing region is not left behind when it comes to transport.”
Gates added, “Not only is this project about safety for road users, but it also delivers safe shared pathways for active travel. We have listened to the feedback provided by residents, and we are committed to ensuring they have the infrastructure they need.”
