Decades after the #GetDoonieALift campaign began, a major accessibility upgrade at Doonside Station has finally opened to the public.
The lift was opened by Transport Minister Jo Haylen, Blacktown MP Stephen Bali and members of the community who campaigned to have lifts installed at the 143 year old station.
The upgrade includes four new lifts connecting the station entrances to the existing footbridge and station platforms, and continuous canopy cover on both platforms.
New stairs have been installed on Platforms 3 and 4 with upgrades to existing ramps, footbridges and stairs on Platforms 1 and 2, while the accessible pathways throughout the station precinct have been re-graded.
There is also a family-accessible toilet, and new accessible parking spaces on Cross Street and School Parade.
Bicycle hoops have been installed next to the Doonside Road and Cross Street station entrances and crucial safety enhancements have been made to CCTV and lighting.
At the main entrance of Doonside Station on Cross Street, a new artwork showcases the cultural connection to the land on which Doonside Station sits – the Ancestral lands of the Wawarrawarri people of the Dharug Nation, also known as the Cockatoo People.
The NSW Government has funded this upgrade under the Transport Access Program, an initiative to provide a better experience for public transport passengers by delivering accessible, modern, secure, and integrated infrastructure across the state.
Transport Minister Jo Haylen said:
”It’s exciting to see the brand new infrastructure and 143 years of heritage come together at Doonside Station after a long community campaign.
“This upgrade will boost passenger safety and convenience, while acknowledging the Dharug people with a beautiful mural at the main entrance to Doonside Station on Cross Street.
“We’ve funded these upgrades to make sure our train stations meet the needs of passengers today and into the future and promote sustainable and healthy modes of transport.
“I want to thank the more than 400 workers who worked on upgrading the station for doing a wonderful job in making it safer and more accessible, while honouring the area’s rich cultural heritage.”
“The Transport Access Program is transforming stations across our state, ensuring everyone has safe, accessible access to our train stations.
“The transformation of Doonside will ensure that commuters with disabilities, parents and passengers with luggage or bikes are able to make the most of our public transport network.
“We’re expanding the benefits of this important program by investing an additional $300 million, to build even more accessible stations across the state.”
Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali said:
“Blacktown LGA is home to the largest urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Australia.
“The Aboriginal artwork showcases the cultural connection to the land on which Doonside Station sits – the ancestral lands of the Wawarrawarri people of the Dharug Nation, also known as the Cockatoo People.
“I want to thank the Doonside community for their strong advocacy and long-term campaign to achieve the upgrades at Doonside station. The patience and understanding of all involved has been commendable.
“Today we can celebrate together the fantastic upgrades, which I know we will enjoy for many years to come.
“I know everybody involved in this project takes a lot of pride in their contribution and I am so appreciative of their fine work.”
