No modern day airport can operate efficiently without rail infrastructure, says Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun.
He issued a press release this morning “in response to the news that the Federal Government’s plans would not include a rail connection’’.
Yesterday, the managing director of regional airline Jetgo Australia, Mr Paul Bredereck, told an aviation conference that the Federal Government was making a mistake in not planning to have a railway line connected to the Badgerys Creek when it opens in 2025.
The plan is for rail to be connected some time after the airport is open.
Buses will be the only public transport linked to the proposed airport, while roads to it are being upgraded by more than $3 billion.
Mr Bredereck told the aviation conference in Sydney that an international airport needed to be attached to an express train service to the city.
Mayor Mannoun said in his press release that “this airport is one of the biggest opportunities for our region.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The people of Western Sydney deserve a world class airport that will bring with it all the jobs and economic benefits that they have been promised and rail is a big component of this,’’ he said.[/social_quote]
“Fast access to cities and surrounding areas will make or break the success of the airport and will be the difference between a world class, job generating facility and a small scale, short sighted operation,” Mayor Mannoun said.
Aerotropolis expert Dr John Kasarda’s recent report, A Western Sydney Aerotropolis, highlighted that improved passenger rail infrastructure can substantially expand the catchment area of an airport, which in turn will attract more passengers and cargo and thereby support more flights.
“Rail is also critical for improving the way freight is managed. A rail connection from day one would allow for an intermodal to operate at the airport which would remove congestion and freight from our roads. It would also attract logistics and freight dependant firms, thereby creating an economically viable concern from the outset,’’ the report said.
“As Doctor John Kasarda said decisions surrounding airports are among the most important strategic choices a country or city can make,’’ Mayor Mannoun said.
“I urge the Federal Government to rethink its plans and not let this opportunity pass us by.”
