Proposed 10km Seaford train line extension to Aldinga is at least a decade away

A train line extension to Aldinga is at least a decade away because it would cost so much – and two other projects are taking priority.

A train line extension to Aldinga is at least a decade away because of its high costs – and two major local projects are more of a priority, officials say.

The state government on Wednesday announced a development ban along a parcel of southern-suburbs land for any future Seaford line expansion.

Premier Peter Malinauskas also revealed a land sale, signed off by the former Liberal government, would now abandoned to ensure land was available for public transport.

60ha of land bounded by Main South Rd, Aldinga Beach Rd, How Rd and Quinliven Rd released to market by Renewal SA. Picture: Renewal SA

He said selling off the 60-hectare site at Aldinga for private development now meant “we would not have the option to pursue a rail extension in future years”.

The reserved 10km rail corridor would be built directly through the earmarked land parcel.

The government said though there were no plans in the next decade to build a train extension to Aldinga, “this decision leaves open the option to pursue this in the 2030s”.

Local Labor MP Leon Bignell said extending the line today would cost the budget more than $2 billion, largely due to a 30 per cent rise in steel costs and bridge works over Pedler Creek.

“The community, of course, would love a shiny new train but they also understand we have to live within our means,” he said.

An electric train beside a diesel model at the Seaford station. Picture: Tait Schmaal

“As much as we would love it it’s just not feasible in the near future.”

Some estimates in 2019 put the cost $800 million. He said the train line would be built when the budget could afford it.

He said at present more important works included finishing the Torrens to Darlington road project.

He said extensive community consultation had found it was the third-most important issue behind duplicating Main South Road and building a new school – both of which were being delivered.

60ha of land bounded by Main South Rd, Aldinga Beach Rd, How Rd and Quinliven Rd that Renewal SA was selling. Picture: Renewal SA

Renewal SA has now terminated its Request for Proposal process for the Aldinga site, which also affects plans for a 3.8ha block neighbouring Cardijn College Galilee to allow for a school expansion.

The government’s land agency will now work with representatives from the College regarding alternative solutions for the school’s expansion.

Acting Onkaparinga Mayor Simon McMahon, whose organisation has been calling for an extension for several years, said it was “something our growing communities want to see”.

“We acknowledge the time frames and support a considered approach to deliver transport infrastructure and urban development options,” he said.

“As an interim step it would be great to see better alignment between rail and bus services at the Seaford station so people are not waiting too long for a connection.”