Minister for Planning, Mick Gentleman has recently announced a new transport initiative to move freight from Canberra by rail. The ACT Government and the NSW Government have signed up to a two year trial whereby scrap metal will be transported to Sydney on rail via an arrangement between the Rail Infrastructure Corporation (now John Holland Rail), working with Access Recycling and Espee Railroad Services. Mr Gentleman explained that the new initiative will see a significant reduction of heavy vehicles using road networks to distribute freight.
“By using the existing freight rail infrastructure we can improve road safety and reduce vehicle emissions,” Mr Gentleman said.
Mr Gentleman explained that the new arrangement will permit the use of a defined portion of rail infrastructure in the ACT as an operational railway for the conveyance of passenger and freight trains.
“Most freight to and from the ACT is road based and our rail network is underutilised. The ACT Freight Strategy, due for release later this year, recognises the importance of retaining rail infrastructure for future potential use,” Mr Gentleman commented.
Mr Gentleman pointed out that the ACT Government has a commitment to deliver an efficient, safe and well-designed freight and traffic network that connects people, goods and services to, from and within the ACT. Gentleman added that the ACT Freight Strategy discussion paper, which was released for consultation last year, examined freight issues in the ACT such as growth, infrastructure and national commitments, and sought ideas on future directions including route sustainability, safety and amenity to the community.
“With national freight projected to double by 2020, it is important that the ACT develops freight infrastructure that is efficient and can deliver productivity outcomes that are on par with the national and international freight industries.” Mr Gentleman commented.