A $12 billion North West Metro to service Sydney's growing inner-north and north-west, is a positive first step in expanding Sydney’s rail network.
“The North West Metro project and broader public transport network announced by Premier Iemma today is a very positive step towards securing Sydney’s future success,” said NSW executive director Ken Morrison.
“This is important for Sydney’s economic, social and environmental future”.
“In particular we welcome the commitment that North West Metro will be the first in a series of new metro lines to transform Sydney’s public transport”, said Mr Morrison.
“The Government now needs to stay committed to this project to ensure construction commences in 2010, the first services open in 2015 and comprehensive services are in operation by 2017”.
“There will be numerous challenges that arise during the planning, community engagement and detailed design stages of the project,” said Mr Morrison.
“The North West Metro will provide a vital link to the growing north-west sector”.
“The new stations along the route should also provide significant urban renewal opportunities in the inner-west and Ryde area to cater for additional jobs and housing under the Metro Strategy”, said Mr Morrison.
“We believe this development and renewal potential should be incorporated into all relevant planning and development frameworks”.
“We are also strongly encouraged that improved access to the 22-hectare Barangaroo precinct has been noted as a feature of the Wynyard Station upgrade”.
“The Government is due to release its package to seek development partners for Barangaroo in the near future and a fast, accessible linkage to this new world-class commercial precinct will be a key ingredient of its success”.
The Property Council looks forward to working with the Government on this major infrastructure initiative.
Media contact:
Ken Morrison, NSW Executive Director, Property Council of Australia, 0412 233 715.
