New data released today has revealed the significant impact stage two of the Gold Coast Light Rail has had on the way locals travel, with more than 78,000 trips taken from three new stations in the first month of service.

Gaven MP Meaghan Scanlon said both residents and tourists had benefitted greatly from the stronger connection to Brisbane.

“Light rail has been a critical development for the Gold Coast and we’re proud to have built one of the best transport systems in the country,” she said.

“Stage two of the Gold Coast Light Rail has built on the highly successful first stage which was completed in July 2014, both built by Labor governments here on the Gold Coast.

“Travelling from Broadbeach to Helensvale and on to Brisbane, has never been easier.”

Ms Scanlon said the increase in patronage was proof of the success of light rail on the Gold Coast.

“Since stage two was launched, we’ve seen a 25 per cent increase in patronage on the Gold Coast light rail - that’s equal to 172,000 extra trips,” she said.

“We’re expecting more and more people will use the light rail service throughout the year as residents return from holidays and become familiar with their new public transport system.

Ms Scanlon said the light rail extension had also resulted in an increase in bus patronage, following a restructure of bus timetables and routes.

“Route 765 on the southern Gold Coast now runs every 15 minutes from 7am-7pm,” she said.

“The new bus route to the theme parks, the TX7, has been a hit - carrying more than 1,900 passengers per day.

“Routes 713, 719, and 765, which received major boosts in service frequency are seeing more than 50 per cent increases in patronage compared to the same period last year.”