The second major construction contract for the Suburban Rail Loop project has been awarded.
The $1.7 billion Tunnels North contract covers the northern section of twin tunnels between Glen Waverly and Box Hill.
The successful bidder, Terra Verde is a global consortium of Webuild, GS Engineering and Construction, and Bouygues Construction Australia – all with deep experience here and overseas, including on the Metro Tunnel Project, North East Link, the Forrestfield-Airport Link in Perth, and Grand Paris Express.
The tunnel boring machines (TBMs) digging this section of twin tunnels will launch from Burwood – travelling south to Glen Waverley in 2026 – and will later travel north towards Box Hill.
Tunnels North is the second major construction contract awarded for SRL East, after the contract for the southern section of tunnels was awarded last year.
SRL East works are well advanced, with early works underway at all six station sites and the train stabling facility in Heatherton. Major construction kicks off in the coming weeks at the site of the new SRL station and transport super hub at Clayton.
Construction of SRL East between Cheltenham and Box Hill is creating up to 8000 direct jobs, with more than 1500 people already working on the project. Trains will be taking passengers in 2035.
The three other main works contracts are well progressed, with three shortlisted bidders to build the six underground stations, and two bidders vying for the Linewide contract – which includes building the trains, fit out of the tunnels and operation of the network.
