Major works progressing well on METRONET Byford Rail Extension project

Works to extend the Armadale Line in Western Australia is making huge progress with all rail infrastructure between Armadale and Byford removed along with the rail bridges over Neerigen Brook and Wungong Brook. 

Major earthworks are also underway along the rail corridor to prepare for the laying of ballast, sleepers and rail. In addition, more than 25 per cent of the piers that will support the elevated rail over Armadale Road, Forrest Road and Church Avenue have been installed. 

“Everywhere you go across our suburbs, METRONET is coming to life. 

“The Byford Rail Extension will be transformative for Perth’s south-east, connecting these rapidly growing communities to the city while creating hundreds of local jobs in construction. 

“Our Government knows how important affordable and accessible public transport is, which is why we’re laser-focused on delivering METRONET for WA,” Premier Roger Cook said. 

Other major works on the Byford Rail Extension include: 

• Over 50 per cent of earthworks for the Byford Station site completed, including the bus interchange and parking areas 
• More than half of the walls forming the Byford Station metropolitan platform installed 
• Piling completed for the eastern side of the Eleventh Road bridge 
• Foundations commenced for Larsen Road pedestrian bridge 

These works are part of the transformational METRONET program for the Armadale Line, and the project is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian governments. 

“The Australian Government is proud to be supporting this crucial transport link for Perth that will provide a long-lasting transport legacy for commuters. 

“This investment will greatly enhance and streamline access commuting to and from Perth and provide better integrated links into the city’s public transport network,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said. 

A key focus of the project is sustainability, and a new renewable diesel (HVO100) trial is about to begin, marking a first in the State’s construction industry. 

The Byford Rail Extension project is creating hundreds of direct job opportunities while delivering a new connection for residents in Byford and the wider Serpentine-Jarrahdale area to the Perth CBD through a seamless 42-minute train journey. 

“We’ve wasted no time getting on with this project, and continue to see huge progress being made on the Byford Rail Extension which will provide much-needed improvements in connectivity while also kick-starting development opportunities. 

“It’s truly going to transform the way people commute, with a seamless 42-minute train journey to the CBD for residents in Byford and the wider Serpentine-Jarrahdale area once the Byford Rail Extension is completed,” WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said. 

The project will extend the Armadale Line by approximately 8 kilometres south to the brand-new Byford Station located about 400 metres north of Abernethy Road, linking the old and new town centre with pedestrian-friendly east-west connections. 

The project will also include rebuilding the Armadale Station to become a new elevated station that passes through the town centre; removing level crossings at Armadale Road, Forrest Road and Church Avenue; and providing about 8 kilometres of continuous shared path for cyclists and pedestrians. 

“It’s exciting to see how much has been achieved so far on the Byford Rail Extension, but, more importantly, what it will deliver for the community once complete. 

“The community will see significant upgrades through the delivery of this project, with two new train stations, the extension of the Armadale Line to Byford, and importantly the removal of a further seven level crossings,” Senator for WA Varun Ghosh said. 

“This is a really exciting time for Byford and our surrounding communities, as our new station comes closer to life. 

“It has been astonishing to see the rate of progress as the site takes shape and this world-class public transport infrastructure is delivered, linking Byford to Perth and beyond in a fast, affordable, and convenient trip. 

“Our Government is doing what’s right for Darling Range and WA by delivering on this transformational project, and I couldn’t be prouder as the local Member,” State Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones said. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; METRONET; Infrastructure Magazine