SUPPORTERS of Hobart's proposed light-rail system have renewed calls for action following the release of the business case review yesterday.
Aecom's review of ACIL Tasman's 2011 business case found it was an essentially fair and sound appraisal of the project but likely optimistic in terms of capital and operating costs.
The review also forecast low commuter numbers.
Describing the review as "disappointing", Hobart Northern Suburbs Rail Action Group president Ben Johnston said action, including genuine community consultation, was needed.
"We really haven't progressed over the past two and half years," he said. "There needs to be more stakeholder engagement and genuine community consultation to build an effective business case.
"We're keen on action beyond words and flawed reports."
Mr Johnston also raised some concerns about the independence of the review.
"As the major community stakeholder, we are concerned that the mainland-based consultants were selected without going through an open tender process," he said.
Former Greens leader Bob Brown said he would convene a meeting of people and organisations who had shown an interest in the project on February 15 next year at MONA to help push it forward.
"I think the light rail is a fabulous opportunity but it needs co-ordination from the wider community," Mr Brown said.
"The Hobart light rail is a sign of whether our city is going to zing into the future or languish."
And Tasmanian Sustainable Transport Minister Nick McKim said he remained firmly committed to the light-rail project.
"I do think it's in the best interests of public transport in Hobart and, in fact, in the best interests of Hobart and Tasmania," he said.
"We will now conduct a separate business case on Stage One from Hobart to Glenorchy on the basis we believe we can get a significantly improved outcome that will allow me to make application to the Commonwealth Government for funding next year."
Opposition spokesman on sustainable transport Matthew Groom said the public was tired of reviews.
"Nick McKim releasing yet another review is a bit like Groundhog Day," he said. "What we need is a clear strategy and plan of action rather than these endless reviews."
He said the Liberal Party was not prepared to give up on the prospect of a light-rail system.
"We support additional public transport options in the northern suburbs and the light rail needs to be assessed in that context," he said.
To access the full report, go to www.dier.tas.gov.au
elizabeth.lord@news.com.au
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