Thornlie-Cockburn Link to Open June 9, Transforming Perth’s Transit
30.03.2025
The Thornlie-Cockburn Link will open on Monday, June 9, marking a major milestone. METRONET continues transforming Perth with this expansion, enhancing the city’s public transportation network. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Thornlie-Cockburn Link Expands Perth’s Rail Network
This new rail connection will be the first east-west link between major lines in Perth. It includes two new stations, Nicholson Road and Ranford Road, improving access for commuters.
Thornlie, Cockburn Central, and Perth Stadium stations will receive upgrades to enhance service quality. The route will provide a direct link from the Mandurah Line to Optus Stadium.
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Thousands of passengers will gain access to the world-class rail network for the first time. This project will significantly improve the system’s resilience, ensuring better transportation options.
Commuters traveling from Nicholson Road Station will reach Perth in just 27 minutes. The journey from Ranford Road Station will take 31 minutes, ensuring efficient connections.
Additional bus routes will link surrounding suburbs to these newly built railway stations. The Public Transport Authority is reviewing feedback and finalizing route adjustments.
Eighty-five thousand sleepers and 180,000 tonnes of gravel were used in construction. The project added 35 km of passenger rail and 22 km of freight rail infrastructure.
The inner section of the Armadale Line will reopen alongside the Thornlie-Cockburn Link. This reopening will enhance connectivity and improve overall efficiency in the transit network.
The upgrade will introduce five elevated stations at Carlisle, Oats Street, Queens Park, Cannington, and Beckenham. These modern stations will improve passenger convenience and network accessibility.
Six level crossings in Victoria Park and Canning sections have been permanently removed. The elevated tracks will improve pedestrian safety and significantly reduce road congestion.
A new seven-kilometer linear park named “Long Park” will be created beneath the tracks. This green space will enhance the urban landscape and provide additional recreational areas.
Thornlie-Cockburn Link to Enhance Commuter Experience
The remaining section of the Armadale Line will reopen once construction is completed. Stations at Sherwood, Challis, Kelmscott, Seaforth, Gosnells, Maddington, and Kenwick will be operational soon.
A formal reopening date for this outer section will be announced in the coming weeks. The phased approach aligns with revised construction timelines for the Byford Rail Extension.
Significant progress has been made on the Byford Rail Extension project in recent weeks. The elevated rail structure is now complete, and most overhead equipment is installed.
Rail replacement buses will continue operating until the full reopening of the Armadale Line. However, services will change on June 9 to accommodate the modified rail schedule.
Most replacement buses will now terminate their routes at Cannington Station for transfers. Passengers will then connect to the train line for onward travel to their destinations.
Revised bus timetables will be released before the Thornlie-Cockburn Link officially opens. These adjustments will streamline commutes and provide passengers with efficient travel options.
Passengers receiving free transport due to the closure will retain their concessions. This policy will remain in place until each affected train station is fully reopened.
The Thornlie-Cockburn Link project required a $1.3 billion investment from government sources. Additionally, the Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal Project cost approximately $1.6 billion.
The Federal and State Governments jointly funded these major infrastructure projects. Their commitment to public transport development continues improving accessibility across the region.
A public event celebrating the Thornlie-Cockburn Link’s opening will take place June 8. Further details regarding this community event will be announced before the launch.
Another event will be held later this year for the full reopening of the Armadale Line. This celebration will highlight the significant progress made in rail infrastructure development.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook emphasized the transformative impact of METRONET projects. He stated that affordable travel and improved connectivity remain the initiative’s core goals.
Federal Minister Catherine King highlighted the project’s significance for Perth’s southern suburbs. She noted that connecting the Mandurah and Armadale Lines will enhance regional mobility.
WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti described the link as a major public transport upgrade. She emphasized the project’s role in strengthening the city’s rail network and capacity.
Federal Minister Matt Keogh underscored the importance of the partnership behind this expansion. He noted that communities in Perth’s south will benefit from enhanced accessibility and convenience.
The government’s commitment to transportation development continues shaping Perth’s future. These projects provide long-term benefits, strengthening connectivity and supporting economic growth.
Source: www.wa.gov.au
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