Metronet Byford Rail extension works surge forward

The congestion-busting Byford Rail Extension continues to make huge progress as part of the transformational METRONET program, with all rail infrastructure between Armadale and Byford and the rail bridges over Neerigen Brook and Wungong Brook now removed.

Major earthworks have started along the rail corridor in preparation for laying ballast, sleepers, and rail.

More than 25 per cent of the piers have been installed to support the elevated rail over Armadale Road, Forrest Road, and Church Avenue.

Other major works 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, and;
• Foundations commenced for Larsen Road pedestrian bridge.

Sustainability is a key focus for the project with a new renewable diesel (HVO100) trial about to commence, a first in the Western Australian construction industry.

The project continues to create hundreds of direct employment opportunities project-wide, as it makes huge strides towards connecting residents in Byford and the wider Serpentine-Jarrahdale area to the Perth CBD on a seamless 42-minute train journey.

The Byford Rail Extension will deliver a brand-new Byford Station in the existing rail corridor 400 metres north of Abernethy Road, linking the old and new town centre with pedestrian-friendly east-west connections.

It will also rebuild Armadale Station as a new elevated station passing through the town centre, remove level crossings at Armadale Road, Forrest Road, and Church Avenue, and provide around eight kilometres of continuous shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.

The project has been jointly funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments.

As stated by Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

"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."

As stated by WA Premier Roger Cook:

"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."

As stated by WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"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."

As stated by Senator for WA Varun Ghosh:

"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."

As stated by State Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones:

"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."