Without Rail, Sydney Will Fall Behind Global Cities

"Professor Peter Newman, a member of the Infrastructure Australia group established by the Rudd Government, has warned the city stands to lose its "competitive edge" to Melbourne and to other cities such as New York, which are removing cars from streets to make them more inviting to pedestrians."

"In an interview this week with the Herald, Professor Newman criticised the State Government's opposition to proposals for a light rail network running down George Street. He said it could be built within two years and was a critical step to getting more pedestrians into the city."

"On Wednesday he also told a City of Sydney forum, City Talk, that banning cars from city streets and lanes, widening footpaths and building light rail systems through the central business district were measures being adopted around the world. Governments recognised that making cities inviting and vibrant was critical to attracting investment, Professor Newman said."