All light rail services across the network will be replaced by buses on the first weekend of July to allow for works to extend light rail from the city to Commonwealth Park.
There will also be temporary road closures and lane reductions on Northbourne Avenue and surrounding streets, as part of Light Rail Stage 2A.
Light rail services replaced by buses
From the first service on Saturday 4 July to the last service on Sunday 5 July 2026, light rail services will be replaced by rail replacement buses across the entire network between Gungahlin Place and Alinga Street.
Rail replacement buses, operated by CDC Canberra, will operate in both directions and service every regular light rail stop along the light rail corridor.
Bus services will run at approximately the same or better frequency of timetabled light rail services. Customers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and to check the Transport Canberra website for detailed information on rail replacement bus stop locations and service details.
Customer are advised that the MyWay+ journey planner may not align to actual journey during the disruption periods and are encouraged to allow extra time if needed. Customers will also be able to follow wayfinding signage on the ground.
The light rail network closure has been planned on a weekend to minimise the impact on commuters. Regular light rail services will resume normal operation from the first service on Monday 6 July 2026.
Road closures and traffic changes
Motorists should expect temporary road closures and lane reductions on Northbourne Avenue and surrounding streets over the weekend, including a full closure of the southbound lanes between Bunda Street and Alinga Street from 1am to 5am Sunday 5 July, and from 1am to 5am on Monday 6 July, with local access maintained from Cooyong Street under traffic control where possible.
Northbourne Avenue will also be reduced to one lane in each direction between Mouat Street and Swinden Street from 1am Saturday 4 July until 5am Monday 6 July. This will support construction crews to extend light rail further through the city.
Detours will be in place via key routes. Traffic controllers, signage and wayfinding will be in place across the network to help road users move safely through the area.
Pedestrian and access changes include:
- Pedestrian crossings at the southern end of the Alinga Street light rail stop will be temporarily closed.
- Alternative crossings will be available at Rudd/Bunda Street and London Circuit.
- Access to nearby businesses, residences and key facilities will be maintained, with traffic management in place.
Works will take place around the Alinga Street light rail stop and platforms, and at the intersection of Northbourne Avenue and Rudd Street/Bunda Street.
Plan ahead
These temporary changes will impact how people travel to and around the city. Road users are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time, follow all detours and traffic control, and check live travel conditions before travelling.
