The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) welcomes the NSW Government’s announcement today to enhance Sydney Metro West under a strategy to ensure major transport projects drive housing supply, recognising the essential role rail plays in supporting sustainable communities.
ARA CEO Caroline Wilkie said adding new stations to Sydney Metro West will deliver even greater social, economic and environmental benefits to communities along the Parramatta to Sydney CBD corridor.
“Having a well thought out placemaking strategy that underpins Sydney Metro West will create sustainable communities with improved quality of life and stimulate local businesses,” Ms Wilkie said.
“Our Journey to Net Zero Report confirmed placemaking is at the heart of sustainable development and can have a significant impact on sustainable outcomes.”
“The ARA welcomes the NSW Government’s commitment to enhancing Sydney Metro West as it delivers this city-shaping project.”
Ms Wilkie said the completion of the review also provides much-needed certainty for the rail industry as it continues to deliver a significant pipeline of rail infrastructure projects around the country.
The NSW Government has directed Sydney Metro to complete scoping studies for up to two new stations to be constructed west of Sydney Olympic Park, along the existing planned route, with a decision made based on their ability to drive greater urban infill housing, in line with recommendations of the Sydney Metro Independent Review.
It also announced accelerated rezoning of several locations across NSW to enable more homes to be built closer to Metro or suburban rail stations and the relocation of the Rosehill Racecourse to build new homes surrounded by greenspace and potentially a new Sydney Metro West station.
Ms Wilkie said rail plays a crucial role in a sustainable transport network and increasing patronage is key to ensuring Australia meets its Net Zero target in 2050.
“Turn-up-and-go transport like the Sydney Metro has the power to transform communities by providing safer, faster access to jobs and services, taking cars off roads and reducing peak-hour congestion,” said Ms Wilkie.
The Sydney Metro West is the biggest transport project in the country and will double capacity, moving more than 40,000 people an hour in each direction, according to the NSW Government.
