kami said:
That would be unimaginably convenient - anyone know how far the government plans to run with that kind of idea? Considering we're getting the MQ stuff which is on there, any other innovations that are in the works? *hopes*
Well that was a long term recommendation. Chrisitie says that if there were both the political will and money to do it, it could be all done within 40 years.
If the government were to do it, it would be done in small seperate stages, each line as an individual project. The problem is finding the money to do it, and there seems to be a lack of will on behalf of governments to build such things at the moment.
However, they do have 3 lines shown in the report in planning or under construction.
1. The Chatswood-Epping Line. (The government has said it will consider the Epping-Parramatta part of the project when the chatswood section is complete). The UTS Kuringgai station will likely never be built. Although originally planned, the green groups protested against the cut and cover tunnel through that area. This means that a tunnel will have to go under the lane cove river, which will be too far below ground to put a station.
2. The Castle hill line. Apparently in planning at the moment. Close to a decade before it will be finished though. They are assesing the viability of extending it further to Rouse Hill.
3. Glenfield - Bringelly. This line looks like it will definately be built. There are no tunnels likely to be required, so costs will be low.
- They were planning the Bondi Beach Extension as well, but local residents complained about it and the project was scrapped for the moment.
And thats about as far as governments will commit. Although i'm sure you'll see many of those lines christie recommended eventually been built. Its just not going to happen all tomorrow.