A METRONET test train on the new Yanchep Extension line. Photo: METRONET.
Following the completion of major works in early December, Perth’s METRONET has started running test trains on the new extension to the Joondalup Line.
The 14.5-kilometre-long section runs roughly between Wanneroo Road and the coast from the current line terminus at Butler to Yanchep and includes new stations at Alkimos and Eglinton.
The line’s extension will connect tens of thousands of people in the city’s growing northern corridor to Perth’s metropolitan rail network for the first time. It will help develop activity centres by stimulating new employment opportunities and residential and commercial land use.
With most of the works complete, the test trains will be run to ensure all infrastructure and systems are tested for passenger safety and comfort before passenger services can commence. The works saw approximately 41,085 sleepers and 90,000 tonnes of ballast laid, and three fauna bridges were installed so wildlife in the Ningana Bushland can safely cross the line.
When passenger services commence it will take 49 minutes from Yanchep to Perth, 46 minutes from Eglinton to Perth and 41 minutes from Alkimos to Perth. No start date for passenger services has been given as it largely depends on the success of the test services.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said jointly funded projects such as the extension highlight the importance of governments working together to provide safer, faster and more efficient transport links.
“The METRONET Yanchep Rail Extension will create social and economic benefits for locals commuting south and visitors who want to explore Perth’s beautiful northern suburbs,” she said.
“This project is part of the Australian Government’s $4.19 billion investment into METRONET, which includes an additional $1 billion commitment announced recently.”
The new extension runs from Butler to Yanchep, roughly parallel to Wanneroo Rd and the coastline. Image: METRONET.
Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the extension would create social and economic benefits for residents commuting south and visitors to the northern suburbs.
“The first test train on the tracks represents a major milestone for the METRONET Yanchep Rail Extension Project and means new train services through Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep are just around the corner,” she said.
“The METRONET Yanchep Rail Extension and recently opened Mitchell Freeway extension represent more than $1.2 billion of investment in better connecting to Perth’s growing northern suburbs and highlights the importance our government places on providing safer, faster and more efficient transport links.
“New and amended bus routes will support the new stations and service planning alongside community consultation will ensure the needs of the community are met.”
