IS the Landsborough rail overpass happening soon? That’s the question locals were asking GC&M News last week.
With the announcement that Hall Contracting had been awarded the early works construction contract for the $550.8 million Beerburrum to Nambour rail upgrade (B2N), with work planned to start in early 2022, questions have been asked about whether the rail crossing at Landsborough is part of this stage.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads has been planning the closure of the rail crossing through the centre of town for many years, with the department publishing its preferred road fly-over option.
Houses have already been purchased where the footprint of the overpass is planned and community consultation has occurred.
A local community group formed in 2019 – the Landsborough Overpass Reference Committee – to advocate on behalf of the community for the best result possible from the overpass project.
The committee organised a community forum in February 2020 to go through ten options, including the TMR preferred overpass solution.
However, according to a TMR spokesperson, there were no firm plans to solve the railway crossing dilemma just yet.
“The Australian and Queensland governments have committed $550.8 million towards an initial stage of B2N,” the spokesperson said.
“Replacing the Caloundra Street level crossing in Landsborough with a grade-separated solution is included in the future stages, which remain unfunded.”
This first funded stage includes three new bridges, expansion of three park ‘n’ ride facilities and the duplication of the rail track between Beerburrum and Beerwah.
It includes the new 300 space Landsborough park ‘n’ ride on the eastern side of the railway, where barrier fencing can be seen.
“Future stages will duplicate the North Coast rail line between Beerwah and Landsborough, extend passing loops and upgrade stations between Landsborough and Nambour,” the spokesperson said.
To read more on the project, the Landsborough Overpass Reference Committee’s website is www.landsoverpass.com.au