The Victorian Government has confirmed the preferred alignment and station precinct locations for the Suburban Rail Loop – a 90km rail ring around Melbourne’s middle suburbs.
The project will connect every metropolitan train line from Cheltenham to Werribee, create a rail link to the airport and build three transport super hubs at Clayton, Broadmeadows and Sunshine to connect regional passengers to the Suburban Rail Loop.
The government also confirm a dedicated new authority to deliver it.
The design and delivery of the project will be led by the Suburban Rail Loop Authority. The new Authority will start its work early September and be headed by incoming Chief Executive, Nick Foa, who has extensive experience in infrastructure, planning and government administration.
Mr Foa and his team will immediately begin consultation with local government, universities and other key institutions and stakeholders on options for where stations will be located in the precincts.
This consultation, along with the geotechnical work already underway, will inform the development of the Business Case. A Registration of Interest process for local and global firms has also begun to establish the best team to build the project from 2022.
Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, said, “This dedicated new authority will ensure the biggest public transport project in our state’s history becomes a reality.
“The Suburban Rail Loop will better connect Victorians to jobs, education and each other. We promised to get on with it, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Jacinta Allan, said, “Right now we’re delivering the West Gate Tunnel, removing level crossings, upgrading suburban roads, getting on with the Metro Tunnel.
“The Suburban Rail Loop is the next step in the future of our transport network.”
Chief Executive of Suburban Rail Loop Authority, Nick Foa, said, “I’m excited to work on this once in a generation project, which will create stronger connections between suburban Melbourne, create more open spaces and provide new opportunities for business in the suburbs.”
