Four shortlisted corridors were investigated for light rail in Western Sydney and the preferred network includes a combination of two of these options.
The New South Wales government has already reserved AU$1bn (£480m) for Parramatta Light Rail and separate ‘special infrastructure contribution’ has also been announced. Subject to consultation, the levy is expected to be set at about AU$200 per square metre of gross floor area of new residential developments. The government will also explore funding contributions from the federal and local governments.
Western Sydney’s new light rail network will connect Parramatta’s central business district (CBD) to Sydney Olympic Park, Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney University and Strathfield.
New South Wales premier Mike Baird, minister for transport and infrastructure Andrew Constance and minister for planning Rob Stokes today announced the route, which is intended to kick-start revitalisation and jobs growth along a 22km corridor.
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"We’re delivering a modern, efficient and reliable light rail network for Western Sydney," said Baird. "The light rail network will help Parramatta reach its potential as Sydney’s second CBD and be a major boost to existing public transport services in Western Sydney."
The spine of the preferred route runs from Westmead to Strathfield via Parramatta CBD, and takes in Camellia and Sydney Olympic Park. A light rail line will also branch to Carlingford, replacing the existing heavy rail shuttle.
Work will now begin on a final business case and assessment of the preferred network. This work will include planning, design and consultation with key stakeholders along the network to develop the staging of the project, the exact light rail route and stops, and the final project cost.
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