It’s official – the contract with NEWest Alliance was signed today to build 32 kilometres of additional rail to Perth’s network, as early works started on the Thornlie-Cockburn Link.

The Public Transport Authority will work closely with CPB Contractors and Downer to deliver the Yanchep Rail Extension and Thornlie-Cockburn Link projects under a bundled contract arrangement, which will collectively support more than 3,000 jobs.

With the contract signed, the Thornlie-Cockburn Link’s final cost is confirmed as $716 million, with the State Government contributing $366 million and the Federal Government contributing $350 million. 

The revised cost reflects the complexity of relocating third party infrastructure, ensuring the jobs created are competitively paid, minimising network disruption and meeting environmental requirements.

The revised project cost is more than offset by savings that will be achieved in the Railcar project .

Due to the complex nature of the third-party service relocations, major construction is due to be completed in 2022, with train services operating in 2023. 

The signing coincides with early works underway for the Thornlie-Cockburn Link.

Main Roads WA is currently widening and lengthening the Karel Avenue Bridge to make room for the additional rail lines and will also integrate early works for the Mandurah Line tie-in with the Kwinana Freeway widening project that is underway. Barrier and drainage works on the northbound freeway lanes between Beeliar Drive and Berrigan Drive in preparation for the construction of the project will commence early next year. 

Integrating this work now will help reduce disruption for motorists on the freeway, but will now see the Kwinana Freeway widening works completed in March 2020.

The 17.5 kilometre Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be the first time two rail lines are connected in Perth. It will include two new stations at Ranford Road and Nicholson Road to better service Perth’s southern suburbs.

The 14.5 kilometre Yanchep Rail Extension will have three new stations at Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep to to offer those living or working in Perth’s growing northern suburbs with an alternative travel choice.