- Stage 2 of Western Sydney Light Rail will run to and from Sydney Olympic Park, with sporting fans among the big winners;
- The 9km route will connect with Stage 1 of the project north of the Parramatta River through the suburbs of Ermington, Melrose Park, Wentworth Point and on to Sydney Olympic Park;
- The new Light Rail service will complement WestConnex road improvements and Sydney Metro West railway as projects that will transform the transport experience to and from Stadium Australia and Sydney Olympic Park.
Caption: Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Minister for Transport Infrastructure Andrew Constance and Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee at the Western Sydney Light Rail announcement outside Stadium Australia
FANS attending sporting and entertainment events at Stadium Australia will benefit from a new world-class public transport service to and from Sydney Olympic Park, with the NSW Government today confirming a Stage 2 extension of Western Sydney Light Rail project.
Speaking today in Sydney Olympic Park, Premier Gladys Berejiklian today confirmed planning for Stage 2 was underway and is expected to be completed throughout 2018.
“I am pleased to announce (Western Sydney) Light Rail Stage 2 is another step closer to connecting Greater Parramatta to the booming sport, entertainment and employment hub at Sydney Olympic Park,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Our preferred 9km route will connect with Stage 1 of the project north of the Parramatta River through the suburbs of Ermington, Melrose Park, Wentworth Point and on to Sydney Olympic Park.
“The exciting plan supports new communities and the creation of public places between Camellia and Ermington and future development planned for Melrose Park,” Ms Berejiklian said.
Joining the Premier for the announcement in Sydney Olympic Park, Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said the NSW Government had started work on a business case for the preferred route north of Parramatta River which is considered the best option to achieve a fully integrated transport and land use plan for the precincts.
“We are going to finalise a business case for this project by the end of 2018 and are working with communities to ensure we can maximise the potential for this option,” Mr Constance said.
“We know it will provide a direct, frequent and reliable public transport connection for these areas and connects the new Western Sydney University campus at Sydney Olympic Park with its three campuses serviced by Stage 1.
“Light rail will also realise Sydney Olympic Park’s potential as Sydney’s premier destination for cultural, entertainment, recreation and sporting events, as well as linking businesses and residents in surrounding areas,” Mr Constance said.
The Minister added at today’s media event: “This is another great transport option for fans travelling to events here at the Stadium.”
A Final Business Case for Stage 2 is expected to be completed in 2018, with an investment decision and details on the timing of construction to follow.
The Environmental Impact Statement for Stage 1 of the project is on exhibition until 23 October and expressions of interest have been sought to design and construct, supply, operate and maintain the network.
Construction on Stage 1 will start in 2018, pending planning approval and will begin operating in 2023.
