We want an integrated transport network where buses, trains, cars and light rail co-exist happily with pedestrians, cyclists, skateboarders and scooters; and it is a vision based on extensive consultation with our community over many years.

The current plan to separate traffic and light rail shuns cyclists and pedestrians by creating a main-street access barrier. The space needed for this style of light rail system will be reserved at the expense of cycleways, parking and vibrant public spaces.

The plan proposed by Transport for NSW dedicates too much space exclusively for light rail lanes and their intermittent service - just one rail car every 10 minutes does not justify the loss of amenity and ease of access for visitors to the city centre.

The plan proposes a dual-lane carriageway on King St between Auckland and Darby streets and prioritises space for cars adjacent to Civic Park, again at the expense of pedestrians, park users and cyclists.

Our interpretation of the REF shows a bidirectional cycleway on the northern edge of Civic Park in place of the current footpath. The footpath will need to be reconstructed deeper into the park adjacent to the proposed cycleway which will require the removal of trees. Interestingly, the cycleway has no apparent connections.

Since the release of the light rail plan, we have advocated strongly and widely about our community needs.

The city can achieve renewal goals if the right model is selected. We want vehicles to share the centre lanes with light rail to optimise space not only down the middle of the street but also along its edges.  We want to build cycleways and wider footpaths, plant new trees, make other street improvements and create a quiet atmosphere and streetscapes conducive to outdoor dining along Hunter and Scott streets.