Local advocates and officials are urging the reopening of the Tennyson rail line to improve the limited transport options for suburban commuters. Many of them currently endure long, indirect routes into the city centre to reach nearby destinations like Corinda and Yeerongpilly.
History and Role of the Tennyson Line
The Tennyson line, officially connecting Corinda to Yeerongpilly, has historically served as a vital connector for Brisbane’s southern suburbs. Before passenger services ended in 2011, the line provided an essential cross-suburban link for students, workers, and residents needing efficient travel without routing through Brisbane’s CBD.
Since its closure, the line has been used solely for freight and occasional maintenance purposes, leaving these southern areas disconnected by rail. Community advocates and local officials believe reopening the line could reduce suburban congestion and enhance Brisbane’s transport network, especially as the city prepares for rapid growth and the 2032 Olympics.
Transport Challenges for Brisbane’s Commuters
Brisbane’s public transport network has long been critiqued for its limited cross-suburban options, unlike cities such as Perth, which operates frequent, well-connected suburban services despite having a smaller network. Brisbane’s radial system, primarily focused on routes in and out of the CBD, often means that residents traveling within southern suburbs must enter the city and transfer to other lines or buses to reach nearby destinations.
Reopening the Tennyson line would create a much-needed cross-suburban connection, saving time and offering a direct rail route through Brisbane’s south.
Community Support for Reopening
Advocacy groups like RAIL Back On Track, led by spokesperson Robert Dow, argue that reopening the Tennyson line would significantly benefit Brisbane’s commuters. Mr Dow highlights that, after the line’s closure, the replacement 104 bus service has struggled to meet the demand once satisfied by the train.
LM Adrian Schrinner supports exploring the option, noting that while constructing new rail lines is costly, repurposing existing infrastructure like the Tennyson line could be a feasible way to meet growing public transport needs. Mr Schrinner emphasises that Brisbane’s expanding population will need better connectivity.
Technical and Financial Factors
According to experts like Professor Mark Hickman of the University of Queensland, the Tennyson line remains technically operable for passenger services, though it would need station and accessibility upgrades. Mr Hickman estimates these upgrades would require significant investment, likely in the millions.
Queensland Rail has acknowledged the line’s potential for passenger use but states that any reopening would demand substantial funding and clear evidence of demand. Queensland Rail and local government are monitoring public interest and population trends to determine future requirements.
The potential reopening of the Tennyson line aligns with the city’s preparations for the 2032 Olympic Games. Local advocates believe the line could offer a convenient suburban transit option for residents and visitors, easing pressure on other routes.
Mr Dow suggests the line could connect suburbs like Ipswich and Springfield with southern areas and the Gold Coast, creating an innovative and timely solution to Brisbane’s transport challenges.
Published 13-Nov-2024