Published
22 April 2015
Ministers
Forrestfield-Airport Link legislation update
The $2billion Forrestfield-Airport Link is a step closer, with the introduction of enabling legislation to State Parliament.
Enabling legislation for the $2b Forrestfield-Airport Link introduced to Parliament
Construction contract to be awarded mid-2016; first trains in 2020
Landmark project to open up new public transport corridor for Perth's eastern suburbs
The $2billion Forrestfield-Airport Link is a step closer, with the introduction of enabling legislation to State Parliament.
The Railway (Forrestfield-Airport Link) Bill 2015 will formalise the State Government's plans and ability to construct the 8.5 kilometre rail spur from the Midland Line out to Forrestfield via Belmont and Perth Airport.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the legislation brought the Forrestfield-Airport Link closer to reality.
"The Liberal National Government is pleased to be delivering this important new public transport corridor to the people of Perth," Mr Nalder said.
The new rail line will run underground for eight kilometres in twin-bored tunnels beneath the Swan River and the airport, a move that will significantly reduce impacts on the local community and the environment.
"Linking our eastern suburbs and Perth Airport to the CBD is a critical part of the Government's plan to future-proof the city by providing increased access to public transport."
The Forrestfield-Airport Link will feature three new stations, including a bus-train interchange station at Airport West (Belmont), a second station at Consolidated Airport (near the current international terminal) and a bus-train interchange station on Dundas Road in Forrestfield.
The Minister said progress on the project was being made behind the scenes.
"Fieldwork for initial geotechnical studies along the route of the underground rail line is now complete and this information will now be analysed. The Public Transport Authority recently received five responses of Expressions of Interest for the design and construction of the new rail line, and an evaluation of these is well under way," he said.
Fact File
$2b Forrestfield-Airport Link due for completion in 2020
Total parking for up to 3,000 cars at Forrestfield and Airport West stations
Project budget includes a $73 million investment in new buses and trains
Part of Government's integrated transport strategy to provide transport choices
Minister's office - 6552 6400
