Electrification of Midland-Stratton freight rail line being considered

1/9/94

More than 40,000 additional residents would have convenient access to a new passenger rail service under a proposal currently being considered by the State Government.

Premier Richard Court said today the Government was closely examining the option of electrification of the existing freight line from Midland to Stratton.

The north-east corridor is one of Western Australia's fastest-growing areas and will need a clean, convenient and fast transport service.

Mr Court said the consideration of the electrification of the freight line would provide convenient access to a passenger rail service to people living in the eastern suburbs including residents of Bellevue, Swan View, Greenmount, Midvale and Stratton.

The population of the area which would be served by the proposed new passenger service between Midland and Stratton was forecast to rise by 42,000 people within 25-30 years.

"Early indications are that the journey time from Stratton to Midland would be slightly over eight minutes," the Premier said.

"This would mean a journey time from Stratton to Perth Central Railway Station of just over 25 minutes - a major bonus for residents of the eastern suburbs who have been calling for better access to city.

"The move would also be a major boom for Midland and reinforce its role as an important regional centre and transport hub.

"This would be an exciting project, not just for the area but for the transport system as a whole."

Mr Court said the proposal would involve the electrification of 6.6 kilometres of track currently used only as a freight line and the possible introduction of three new passenger stations at Bellevue, Midvale and Stratton.

Provision for the popular 'Park and Ride' service would be made at two of the stations.

Officials have estimated the cost of electrifying the freight line at $4.8 million. This does not include the cost of constructing three passenger stations.

However, the cost of construction would not be prohibitive if they were designed along the lines of other ground level stations on the Perth-Midland line.

Mr Court said all relevant departments agreed with the proposed extension of the passenger service and electrification.

"However, further assessment will be required to determine the feasibility of the project, including reviewing timetables, the availability of rolling stock and land availability for the new stations," he said.

"The major advantage of the proposals is that for a relatively small outlay the State Government would be able to make a significant improvement to the lifestyle of residents in the eastern suburbs.

"The provision of a good transport service in a fast-developing area is easier on everyone and means that people get into the habit of using rapid transport early and thereby keep their cars off the roads."