Canberra to Eden Rail Feasibility
A rail link between Canberra and the Port of Eden was identified as a potential opportunity to generate economic value to the Snowy Monaro region and the south west region of NSW. There is an existing (non-operational) rail corridor between Queanbeyan to Bombala via Cooma progressively decommissioned between 1986 and 1990 and considered for rehabilitation in this project.
Remaining sections of the line have served as limited heritage/tourist operations however, most of the line is in non-trafficable condition. Its age and non-operational status have led to declining condition of many key aspects including, degraded sleepers, broken rails, deteriorated (or removed) timber bridges and complete removal of the rail line at several locations (including at level crossings).
A concept was developed to rebuild the decommissioned line between Queanbeyan and Bombala and then build two new extensions on either end to connect it to the anticipated end points at Canberra Airport and the Port of Eden on the NSW south coast.
Canberra to Eden Rail link
Feasibility
Direct Client: Ontoit
End Client: NSW Government
Services Primary : Economics & Financial Analysis
Sector: Transport
Our Role
Aalto was engaged as a specialist sub-consultancy to assess the economic and financial viability of the proposed reinstatement of the rail line to support passenger and freight traffic, from the Port of Eden to Canberra airport.
The assessment considered multiple demand scenarios to carry passenger (leisure or commuter) traffic and a range of freight commodities which are currently handled at the Port of Eden. Alignments for the proposed rail line within the corridor were informed by an engineering assessment and an environmental assessment. An economic impact assessment was also undertaken to consider the socio-economic profile and potential impact arising from investment. Aalto was provided with demand forecasts by transport planners as well as cost estimates for a range of trackworks required for various levels of carrying capacity, as part of the analysis.
Outcomes & Insights
The economic assessment of the project options found that there would be little if any, return on investment. Project benefits are derived primarily from the freight and passenger demands that can be attracted to the corridor and directed to the Port of Eden
A range of likely demand scenarios were modelled in detail, however none demonstrated a positive return, given the substantial capital and operating cost associated with re-establishing and operating the line in the corridor as presented.
The NSW Government accepted and published the findings of the feasibility study.