Plans for rapid bus services in Hobart go ahead as light rail options decline

Concept images of a proposed bus network (BRT) for Hobart have been re-released by the state government as ‘new and exclusive’.

The artist’s impressions were first made public in October 2023 as part of the ‘Keeping Hobart Moving’ concept plan, which included new ferry routes to Derwent, an integrated bus network and expanded walking, cycling, running and scooter use opportunities.

The designs include buses and tram-like vehicles compatible with a BRT system, which the state government wants to see deployed across Hobart’s public transport network in the coming years.

Transport Minister Eric Abetz says the former Macquarie Point railway line through the northern suburbs is likely to be removed to make way for new BRT infrastructure, a move that has been opposed by politicians and a pro-light rail group.

“The Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor offers a great lifestyle, a wide choice of homes, fast and direct public transport and a sustainable, vibrant economy,” Abetz said.

“The urban renewal of the corridor, commencing with the 4km stretch from Glenorchy to New Town, will breathe new life into the residential and light industrial areas of the region, with an initial focus on areas within walking distance of the corridor.”

Abetz said the proposed BRT system is the key feature of the recently released Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor Growth Strategy.

The strategy released on Sunday comes alongside the medium-density development guidelines, which aim to encourage “increased development of terraces, townhouses and low- to mid-rise apartments” along the route.

“The strategy outlines the phased regeneration of areas around the disused rail line from Macquarie Point to Granton to maximise economic, social and lifestyle benefits,” a state government spokesperson said.

Helen Burnet, spokesperson for Greens Transport and Planning, which advocates light rail over a rapid bus system, said the plan “looks hollow” and lacks detailed information.

“All the information the public has is a few artist’s impressions of what look a lot like bus stops,” she said.

“The Greens welcome any proposal to activate the Northern Suburbs rail corridor and increase housing opportunities. The corridor is a vital transport link for Hobart.”

Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey, who said earlier this year that light rail “should be considered for the old northern rail corridor”, stressed the need for more housing options for future generations.

“The Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor presents a unique opportunity to transform the composition of Glenorchy’s urban areas and enable more people to live closer to amenities, ideally supported by high-quality public transport,” she said.

A previous state-funded report from before Covid put the construction cost of Hobart’s bus rapid transit system at $445 million, compared to $596 million for light rail.

The report found that light rail would be more “city-shaping,” opening up denser development around the corridor, resulting in four times as many homes as bus rapid transit and twice as many as rail-free trams.

The report found that light rail has the greatest impact on urban development goals, unlocking the greatest amount of housing in the corridor through increased public transport capacity during peak hours.

“The rapid bus had the least impact on urban development objectives. This is due to several factors, including the relative lack of integration of rapid buses with surrounding land markets and the demonstrated preference (public sentiment) for the bus compared to other competing modes.”

Abetz expects BRT services to commence between 2026 and 2029, depending on business cases, availability of financing and approvals.