The Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East project is advancing quickly, with a $1.7 billion contract awarded to construct twin tunnels between Glen Waverley and Box Hill. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Suburban Rail Loop
Photo, source: bigbuild.vic.gov.au

The Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East project is making significant progress, with the recent awarding of a $1.7 billion contract for its northern twin tunnel section. This ambitious infrastructure endeavor connects Glen Waverley and Box Hill, enhancing Melbourne’s transport network and promising faster, more reliable travel for residents.

Rail Ticketing App Seatfrog Named in Deloitte UK’s Fast 50 for Growth

Terra Verde, a global consortium of Webuild, GS Engineering and Construction, and Bouygues Construction Australia, secured the contract. Each company brings vast experience from major local and international projects, such as the Metro Tunnel, North East Link, Perth’s Forrestfield-Airport Link, and the Grand Paris Express. Their expertise will contribute to making SRL East a transformative project in suburban transportation.

Suburban Rail Loop: Twin Tunnel Construction Begins in 2026

In 2026, tunnel boring machines (TBMs) will begin excavation at Burwood, progressing southward to Glen Waverley before heading north to Box Hill. This Tunnels North contract represents the second major construction agreement for SRL East, following last year’s contract for the southern tunnel section. Melbourne’s ongoing investment in this project demonstrates the city’s commitment to building a resilient, future-focused transport system.

Preliminary construction activities are well underway at six station sites, alongside a train stabling facility in Heatherton. Major construction will commence shortly at Clayton, where a new SRL station and transport super hub are planned. These advancements underscore the Suburban Rail Loop’s importance for suburban infrastructure and connectivity.

Job Creation and Economic Growth Through the Suburban Rail Loop

SRL East will generate substantial job opportunities, providing an economic boost to Melbourne. The project will create up to 8,000 direct jobs between Cheltenham and Box Hill, with over 1,500 people already actively involved. This workforce will help build a more connected Melbourne, ready for the future.

Three more primary contracts for SRL East are progressing, with shortlisted bidders competing to construct six underground stations. Meanwhile, two other bidders are vying for the Linewide contract, covering train manufacturing, tunnel outfitting, and network operation. The scale of these contracts illustrates SRL’s comprehensive approach to redefining the city’s public transport.

In 2035, SRL East trains will begin service, marking the fulfillment of a vision for efficient, fast travel across Melbourne. Beyond improving travel times, the Suburban Rail Loop will also drive residential growth, adding much-needed housing near jobs, services, and public transport options.

Photo, source: bigbuild.vic.gov.au

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Battery-Powered Train: The Future of Sustainable Travel in the UK

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit