Infrastructure Canberra released the draft environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Canberra Light Rail extension to Woden this week, confirming light rail offers a clear opportunity to future-proof the city’s transport solutions along the north-south corridor.

The statement confirms that rapid bus solutions are not a viable alternative, as they are likely to experience capacity and reliability challenges as road congestion increases over time. This reflects the findings of the ARA’s Renaissance of Light Rail report, which was released in 2021 as part of our advocacy to support rail infrastructure investment to meet Australia’s future transport needs.

It found light rail is well placed to maximise patronage, reliability and travel time savings, while also driving urban renewal and improving the local amenity.

The Canberra Light Rail extension will facilitate up to 2400 trips per hour in each direction and won’t be impacted by increasing road congestion in the way that rapid buses could be.

The draft EIS is on public exhibition for feedback until Friday 5 September and is available here.