The release today by the NSW Government of the Parramatta light rail stage 2 blueprint must be followed by a guaranteed funding commitment to ensure the project moves ahead as quickly as possible, the Tourism & Transport Forum Australia (TTF) said today.

“While the release of the stage 2 blueprint is a very welcome development, what the people of Western Sydney need now is a guaranteed funding commitment to ensure this long-awaited project can finally be built,” TTF Chief Executive Margy Osmond said.

“The light rail project has the potential to not only be a game-changer for Parramatta that will help cement its place as Sydney’s second CBD, but it will also go a long way towards reducing congestion across the greater Parramatta and Homebush areas.

“The region desperately needs stronger public transport options as it rapidly grows into a bustling and dynamic employment, entertainment and residential centre.

“This project certainly has the potential to transform the region and support greater employment, residential and tourism outcomes, particularly if it complements the Sydney Metro West.”

Ms Osmond said the next stage of the Parramatta light rail project will help to ensure Olympic Park reaches its potential as a world-class entertainment and employment precinct.

“With more than one million people visiting ANZ Stadium for a major event, and more than 900,000 attending the Sydney Royal Easter Show, the existing public transport connections to Sydney Olympic Park are bursting at the seams every time a major event is held,” Ms Osmond said.

“This project needs to be built, and it needs to be built as soon as possible.”