Member for Algester Leeanne Enoch and Member for Logan Linus Power are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with local residents in their concerns about the impact of the Australian Rail Track Corporation’s (ARTC) Inland Rail project on the community.
Ms Enoch said that as a local resident who also lives near the proposed rail line, she understands the community’s concerns.
“I know how loud the trains are when they go past, especially late at night and in the early hours of the morning. Right now we have trains going past around eight times a day. ARTC is proposing this could increase to two every hour on average,” Ms Enoch said.
“The project was initiated by the Federal LNP Government in this year’s budget with no consultation with local residents.
“It’s a real shame the LNP has committed $8.46 billion taxpayer dollars to a freight rail line at the expense of our community, and in the process failed to consult with local residents.
“They say the project is designed to take trucks off our roads, but the train line finishes at Acacia Ridge and from there freight will still have to get to the port. This could mean more B-Double trucks on our already-congested roads,” Ms Enoch said.
“I understand many residents have tried to relay their concerns directly to ARTC, but have yet to receive an adequate response, or in some cases any response at all and this lack of consultation is not good enough. We want meaningful consultation with the Federal Government on this issue.
“I have raised the issue with the Deputy Premier this week and she has committed to working with me to ensure our community’s voice is heard and we have a seat at the table.” Ms Enoch said.
Member for Logan Linus Power agrees that inland rail is an issue that needs to be resolved.
“The Federal Government needs to genuinely consult with local residents and help, not hinder passenger rail for Greenbank and Flagstone,” Mr Power said.
“It’s disappointing that ARTC are not providing reassurance to our community that these issues will be addressed.”
ENDS
MEDIA: Louise Ryan 0413 722 656