Progress continues on the delivery of the new METRONET Bayswater Station as well as the Morley-Ellenbrook Line project with the demolition of the old Bayswater (Baysie) Bridge.
The dismantling of the old bridge was carried out during the ongoing shutdown of the Midland and Airport lines. This shutdown period is an essential step in the construction of the new Bayswater Station and Morley-Ellenbrook Line.
Other works to be carried out during this shutdown period include the demolition of the old train station and bridge along with the relocation of 1.8 kilometres of track and rail systems onto the new, higher rail bridge.
“The day has come to say our final goodbyes to the old Bayswater Bridge, and while it will come with a tinge of sadness for some, I am sure many will be rejoicing – especially truck drivers.
“The old bridge will make way for the new 4.8 high bridge that will form part of the new METRONET Bayswater Station, which will be a focal point for our significantly expanded rail network.
“The new Bayswater Station will be the biggest outside of Perth City, servicing three rail lines including the Midland, Airport and future Morley-Ellenbrook Line,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.
The new Bayswater Bridge is set to become a key intersection of the Midland, Airport and Morley-Ellenbrook lines.
On the other hand, the recent demolition of the old Bayswater Station will enable piling works to commence on the final two rail bridges. It will also facilitate the connection for the Morley-Ellenbrook Line along Railway Parade.
Concrete removed from the old Bayswater Bridge as well as steel supporting beams, bracing, and steel reinforcement from the supporting walls are going to be recycled. The old signage will also be donated to the City of Bayswater to be retained for historic value or repurposed for use by local businesses or community groups.
Segments of the old bridge will be incorporated into the landscaping around the new Bayswater Station along with a commissioned public art piece that repurposes the existing LED low-clearance signage, creating an interactive audio-visual piece for the new station’s forecourt.
“I also want to thank the community and local businesses for their patience during this time, and acknowledge the disruption these works are causing.
“It is important that we continue supporting Bayswater businesses who remain open during these works who help keep our community strong and vibrant.
“At project completion, the new Bayswater Station will become a key transport hub with three rail lines connecting our communities, new public spaces and extensive public art in place for the community to enjoy,” Minister Saffioti said.
Opportunities for tenancy for mixed uses at the eastern station entry of the new Bayswater Station are also set to open, providing the local community a lively plaza that they can enjoy.
A final farewell event to commemorate the old Bayswater Bridge is going to be held on 30 April 2023 from 10am to 1pm. The event will feature a free sausage sizzle, live entertainment, face painting, and free popcorn and fairy floss.
“This is the end of an era, but it also marks an important milestone in delivering a better Bayswater Train Station for our community.
“I know how disruptive these works are for the local community, and I just want to reiterate my thanks for the patience and understanding everyone has shown in recent weeks,” Maylands MLA Lisa Baker said.
The delivery of the new Bayswater Station marks the beginning of the development of the Morley-Ellenbrook Line that will deliver a 21-kilometre rail line and support up to 6,500 jobs.
Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; METRONET (1, 2, 3)