Lined with embassies on the approach to Parliament House, the residential suburbs of Deakin and Yarralumla are serviced by vibrant local shops with a range of dining and shopping options. Schools, playing fields and regional cycleways provide further connections into the suburbs. The proposed Kent Street stop would support these businesses and services, including the existing health precinct in West Deakin.

The precinct landscape is characterised by Adelaide Avenue’s multi-lane roadway. Some of Canberra’s most iconic views can be seen from Adelaide Avenue, including views to Parliament House and to the Brindabellas. Bridges along Adelaide Avenue at Hopetoun Circuit and Kent Street further characterise the landscape and provide access into the local suburbs.

Adelaide Avenue is also an important approach route to Parliament House and landmarks associated with Canberra’s role as the nation’s capital extend into this precinct.

Some key considerations for design of light rail in the Inner South Precinct include how the project would:

• Promote connections, wayfinding and amenity for pedestrians and cyclists from surrounding areas to proposed light rail stops.
• Integrate stops into the Adelaide Avenue median.
• Navigate level changes between roadways and bridges across Adelaide Avenue to make light rail platforms accessible.
• Improve ecological and biodiversity outcomes.

To respond to these considerations, the concept design and Environmental Impact Statement will explore the following design features and implications:

Connecting people to places

Light rail will support greater connectivity and activity in this precinct, which will be serviced by stops proposed at Hopetoun Circuit and Kent Street.

With ample space on Adelaide Avenue, light rail and stops would be located within the median, minimising impact to traffic. The addition of pick-up and drop-off zones, bus stops, and upgraded cycleways and footpaths will provide for safe access.

A new pedestrian and cyclist bridge over Adelaide Avenue at Kent Street would improve connectivity between suburbs.

Lifts and stairs will ensure stops are accessible, enabling people to move easily into the surrounding areas.

Natural systems

The addition of appropriate trees and landscape designs would provide improvements to the physical and visual amenity of Adelaide Avenue, including enhancement to biodiversity and habitat.

High quality urban design and innovation

A wire-free track in areas of national significance will respect the important vistas of our National Capital.

A light rail traction power supply substation will support the delivery of light rail while sensitively integrating with the existing landscape.