Four QLD train stations prepare for major accessibility upgrades

Queensland Rail is pushing ahead with accessibility upgrades to the train stations at Lindum, Morningside, Buranda and Banyo with early works now underway. 

The upgrades are being delivered as part of the Queensland Government’s Big Build, which included a budget allocation of $300 million for five station accessibility upgrades – including Lindum, Morningside and Banyo stations – on the Queensland Rail network. 

Arrangements for a full accessibility upgrade for Buranda station are also underway, and the project is estimated to cost $70 million. 

“The Morningside Train Station is one of the most well used on the Cleveland line and the accessibility upgrade is going to make a huge difference. 

“Public transport is just so important and I know there has been a lot of excitement because of the upgrade plans. 

“This is a terrific investment which I think when complete, will encourage more people in and around Morningside to consider public transport,” Member for Bulimba Di Farmer said. 

Key features of the accessibility upgrades include: 

• A new footbridge with lift access 
• Improved accessible parking 
• Full length high-level platforms 
• Upgraded hearing augmentation loops and tactile ground surface indicators 
• Upgraded security cameras and lighting 
• New wayfinding and platform signage 
• New station office and facilities 

Raising the station platforms brings it closer to train doors and reduces the gap, making boarding the train safer and easier. 

Meanwhile, customers in wheelchairs, with walking frames, parents with prams and people with luggage will be able to take a lift to a station overpass to get to the platforms – which is a great accessibility outcome. 

Customers at Lindum, Morningside and Banyo will also be seeing other benefits from the upgrades, including updated security cameras and improved bicycle storage facilities. 

“We want to hear directly from those customers who’ll be affected by these closures so we can work out how best we can support them while their upgrade is progressing from January next year. 

“This feedback will be used to ensure there is appropriate alternative transport in place and help us prepare for any extra patronage at surrounding stations. 

“We understand this will change the way customers travel for a period of time, but we’re committed to making our rail network accessible for everyone in the long-term,” Queensland Rail Head of SEQ Scott Riedel said. 

To enable the works to be carried out, the stations need to be temporarily closed and Queensland Rail is consulting with customers about alternative travel arrangements. 

Queensland Rail plans to provide shuttle services to nearby stations as an alternative transport option, but to ensure all customers are covered, a survey has been launched which asks customers directly about their travel patterns and how best they can be supported when major works begin on the station from January next year. 

The surveys can be found on Queensland Rail’s dedicated pages for Lindum, Morningside, Banyo and Buranda. 

“These upgrades will make our network better for everybody, but with the closures there’ll be some disruptions. We’re doing it this way because it means we can get the job done safely and efficiently, minimising impacts. 

“There’s no better expert on your travel habits than you – the customer, which is why we want to work with you to make sure our alternative transport plan is right for you. 

“Fill in the survey so we can plan for the travel you need while we’re busy getting this important accessibility upgrade done,” Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said. 

In addition to the survey, Queensland Rail has also announced that the construction contract for major works for the four stations has been awarded to Laing O’Rourke. 

Enabling works are now underway at Lindum and Buranda stations, with site establishment to begin over the coming months. On the other hand, geotechnical activities as well as overhead line and service locations works have already been carried out at Morningside station, and customers will see piling, signalling construction and site establishment soon. 

At Banyo station, similar works have commenced with survey activities and associated platform works to continue in the coming weeks, which includes the removal of the heritage shelter on platform 1. 

“Accessibility to public transport is important for so many in our communities from young parents to cyclists, to those with a disability and the elderly. 

“Our community advocated for these accessibility upgrades at Banyo Station some time ago and will welcome them being delivered. 

“Being able to catch public transport safely and comfortably means everyone can enjoy ease of access and stay connected,” Member for Nudgee Leanne Linnard said. 

Subject to weather and construction conditions, the stations at Lindum, Morningside and Banyo are set to reopen throughout the second half of 2024 while Buranda station will be ready for customers in mid-2025. 

The station upgrades are all part of the rail revolution happening across the South East with Cross River Rail and 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games preparations underway. 

“With a new station building, and an upgraded Park n Ride that includes a new active transport enclosure, these station accessibility upgrades have something for all users of public transport. 

“We want to make it easy and seamless for people to catch trains or ride their bikes and this investment in the community makes that possible,” Member for Lytton Joan Pease said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Queensland Rail (1, 2, 3, 4)