Suburban Rail Loop CEO Dismisses Inaction Claims with Update

Suburban Rail Loop CEO Frankie Carroll has rejected recent claims that nothing is happening, stating the project is progressing at all SRL East sites and involves over 3,000 active workers. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

He emphasized that work is underway at Cheltenham, Clayton, Monash, Glen Waverley, Burwood, and Box Hill, along with the stabling yard being built in Heatherton for future train operations.

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Laing O’Rourke remains on schedule to complete the Initial and Early Works by January 2026. This includes site preparation, road changes, utility relocation, and demolition—critical steps to keep the Suburban Rail Loop timeline on track.

Suburban Rail Loop Tunnel Site Advancing on Schedule

At the Clarinda TBM launch zone, crews are enhancing ground conditions along the tunnel axis. Diaphragm wall excavation is progressing, and the first tunnel boring machine is scheduled to start in April 2025.

Meanwhile, the Heatherton yard, which will house 13 trains after SRL East opens in 2035, is nearing structural completion. Steel supports are in place, and the team expects to hand over the site to the main contractor by year’s end.

Power infrastructure is also nearing readiness, with energization planned soon to support tunnel operations. This facility will enable maintenance, storage, and cleaning for SRL trains not in use.

Suburban Rail Loop Station Works Continue at Burwood

At Burwood, excavation is set to finish by late July. All surrounding utilities have been cleared, and demolition of nearby buildings is complete in preparation for TBM delivery in 2026.

Carroll concluded by reaffirming the SRL team’s commitment to delivery. He said the momentum is real, and each construction zone is steadily contributing to Melbourne’s largest infrastructure initiative.

Source: www.railexpress.com.au

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