Commuters on the Gold Coast are currently experiencing significant delays on the M1, and now face new concerns regarding the potential implementation of tolls on the Coomera Connector project, which is designed to ease congestion. This issue has been ignited by recent amendments to legislation, leading to a heated debate involving the local council, the state government, and the opposition.
The government claims that the recent changes are merely administrative and aimed at closing a loophole involving trucks using the Logan Motorway. Conversely, the opposition argues that these changes may pave the way for toll charges on the Coomera Connector, intensifying concerns among residents.
Gaven MP Meaghan Scanlon voiced apprehensions on behalf of Gold Coast residents, stating that while the area requires more infrastructure, it should not come at the cost of tolls. She suggests that if the Liberal National Party (LNP) were genuine, they would not have pushed the legislative amendments through without proper scrutiny.
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg defended the changes as solely administrative, rebuffing claims from the opposition as part of a “scare campaign” for political gain. Meanwhile, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has expressed a willingness to entertain tolls if they would facilitate the expansion of the project to six lanes instead of the proposed four lanes. He stressed the importance of avoiding future traffic congestion which could arise from adding just four lanes.
Stage 1 of the $3 billion Coomera Connector project aims to establish a second M1 between Coomera and Nerang, with segments scheduled to open later this year. While both major parties have officially opposed tolling for the new motorway, Mayor Tate insists that widening needs to be considered, possibly funded by toll revenue.
He plans to formally request Transport Minister Mickelberg to consider this expansion, underscoring the importance of addressing the traffic needs of the growing Gold Coast region. The discussions continue, drawing attention to the balance between necessary infrastructure development and the financial burden that tolls might impose on local commuters.