Lightrail works to be intensified

Construction of a $1.2 billion lightrail network through the heart of Surfers Paradise will be fast tracked to minimise inconveniences.

News Limited reports that the Glitter Strip will see a four-month intensive upgrade to finish in June, ensuring that retailers are affected to a minimum.

GoldLinQ is the developer of the project, which it says will result in a revitalisation of the Gold Coast and attract investment – a phenomenon that may benefit Gold Coast real estate.

Chief executive of GoldLinQ Phil Mumford told the Gold Coast Bulletin that their underground works can occur in a single go.

"As part of these works, road closures and traffic diversions are needed due to the size and nature of the construction activity and to ensure the safety of the community, our workers and travelling public.

"Instead of a longer period with works happening in and out of the boulevard, the next four months are going to be intense construction-wise, but at the end we will only have footpaths and station fit-outs followed by landscaping remaining."

The stage one corridor between Griffith University and Gold Coast University Hospital is expected to begin services in 2014.

By the time the entire project is completed, 75,000 people will be able to travel on the rail network each day.