New East-West Connection Unveiled: Thornlie to Cockburn Line Launches in Perth
According to a recent publication by the Western Australian government, perth’s Transperth suburban rail network has taken a meaningful step forward with the launch of the Thornlie – Cockburn Line. This new line spans 17 kilometers, creating an essential east-west connection between the existing Mandurah and Armadale lines.
The opening festivities on June 8 attracted over 20,000 attendees who enjoyed live performances and complimentary sausage sizzles before regular services commenced.
“We’re enhancing travel options for residents in perth’s southeast,tackling traffic congestion while promoting land development for more sustainable communities,” stated Roger Cook,premier of western Australia. “These initiatives go beyond mere infrastructure; they’re about fostering connections and vibrant community life.”
The new line features three stations equipped with a total of approximately 1,400 parking spaces. Additionally, bus routes link surrounding neighborhoods to these stations. Notably, this line offers direct access from the Mandurah Line to Optus stadium for major events like Australian Rules Football games and concerts—an exciting first!
This project was executed by the NEWest Alliance comprising CPB Contractors and DT Infrastructure as part of Metronet’s broader expansion efforts. It involved realigning freight tracks to accommodate passenger services while utilizing a tunnel constructed over twenty years ago specifically for this purpose.
The initiative introduced two new stations at Nicholson Road and Ranford Road while upgrading Thornlie and Cockburn Central stations—transforming Thornlie into a through station. The electrified track operates on a gauge of 1,067 mm at a frequency of 25 kV/50 Hz.
A remarkable feat was achieved when CPB Contractors installed Australia’s largest bridge beams at Ranford Road Bridge—each weighing more than an notable 197 tonnes! A micro tunnel boring machine created twin tunnels beneath existing freight corridors near this bridge site. Moreover, five steel trusses were placed under Canning River Bridge to ensure structural stability using over 27 tonnes of recycled materials such as concrete and plastic pipes.
p > div >
The inner section (8 km) of the Armadale Line has also been revamped into an elevated structure that eliminates level crossings entirely. New stations have been established at Carlisle, Oats Street, Queens Park, Cannington, and Beckenham—all situated beneath what is now known as Long Park—a lovely recreational area stretching across 7 km. p >
Looming ahead is the reopening later this year of the outer section featuring rebuilt stations in Sherwood, Challis , Kelmscott , Seaforth , Gosnells , Maddington , Kenwick along with an upgraded elevated Armadale station plus extended passenger services reaching Byford’s brand-new station! p >
div >
Content Original Link:
" target="_blank">
