Goulburn-Crookwell Rail Trail
Petitioner:
Mrs Penelope Ackery
| Member:
Tuckerman, Wendy
| No. of Signatories:
1,332
| Date closed:
28/01/2022
To the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly,
We would like to record our support for the GOULBURN-CROOKWELL RAIL TRAIL proposal.
The proposal is to redevelop the 56km disused rail corridor between Goulburn and Crookwell, by creating a 3m wide surface on the former railway bed, to allow all-abilities recreational use by walkers, runners and cyclists.
The development will be a major tourism driver for both communities and will draw wide spread participation as evidenced in other areas where similar facilities exist.
The project cost is $14.2M, and is readily accessible, being within a 2.5 hour drive for 75% of the NSW population (some 6M people). The Feasibility Report demonstrates an injection from locals, day trips and overnight visitors, of $3.4M each year following completion.
The project has the support of both Councils (Goulburn Mulwaree and Upper Lachlan Shire); is included in both their Community Strategic Plans, as well as strategic plans for the Canberra Region Joint Organisation and Destination NSW Southern. Community consultation has already demonstrated wide support by residents, as well as from Chamber of Commerce and by Regional Development Australia Southern Inland.
In view of the significant tourism, economic, social and health benefits associated with this proposal, we urge the State Government to now close the rail corridor, approve the project, and reinstate funding support to enable delivery in the short term.
And, we add our support for the progression of other RAIL TRAILS across NSW."
