Planning progresses on $1.85bn VIC Next Generation Trams project

A new tram maintenance and stabling facility in Maidstone is a step closer to construction as the planning approval process for the project gets underway. 

The new facility is being built as part of the Victorian Government’s $1.85 billion investment in new generation trams. 

The tram maintenance and stabling facility will be constructed on a section of the old Victoria University site at the corner of Williamson and Hampstead roads. 

The new facility is going to be utilised to clean, maintain and stable the trams as well as house tram operations and administration staff. 

The development of the new tram facility is estimated to create up to 280 jobs, including opportunities for ongoing maintenance and the supply chain with local suppliers engaged to provide materials and services. 

“Locals have been eager to see the Maidstone site revitalised and this project will create jobs and improve services for passengers in this part of Melbourne,” Member for Footscray Katie Hall said. 

Feedback on the project is now being sought after and the community is encouraged to make a submission and give their feedback on aspects such as the use of the project site or construction impacts. 

Early works on the tram maintenance and stabling facility are anticipated to commence in early 2023. 

The more than one-billion-dollar Next Generation Trams project is the country’s largest investment in locally made trams and it is setting a standard for modern public transport through the delivery of more comfortable, accessible and energy efficient tram services. 

“Melbourne’s new next generation trams will be the most accessible, comfortable and energy-efficient trams ever, making public transport more accessible for all Victorians. 

“Building this new state-of-the-art facility will ensure the world’s largest tram network continues to run safely and reliably for years to come,” Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll said. 

The significant investment will deliver 100 new generation trams and a new tram maintenance and stabling facility. 

The overall project is estimated to support up to 1,900 local jobs and will require a minimum of 65 per cent local content. 

Earlier this year, the contract to design, build and maintain the trams was awarded to Bombardier Transportation Australia. You can read more about the contract award here. 

The new next generation trams will start rolling out from 2026. 

Source: Victoria State Government – Media Release; Engage Victoria; Victoria State Government – Department of Transport (1, 2); Infrastructure Magazine; Rail Express; The National Tribune