Cross River Rail works to shut down SEQ train network for weeks over Christmas holidays

South East Queensland rail passengers face five weeks of disruption up to Christmas and beyond as Cross River Rail works shut down entire lines. SEE THE CHANGES

All southeast Queensland rail services will be disrupted by Cross River Rail works until as late as January 26, with track closures and replacement buses looming.

Track closures are scheduled from December 20, in stages, to allow for installation of signalling, new tracks, drainage works between Albion and Bowen Hills, relocation of cables and other work between Salisbury and Boggo Road station.

Track maintenance would also be done between Bowen Hills, Wooloowin and Ferny Grove and on the Cleveland line in the New Year.

During the first week all lines would be affected.

Buses would replace trains on all lines between Roma Street and Northgate/Eagle Junction and on the Ferny Grove line.

The last widespread changes due to CRR works was in the September/October school holidays, but there have been multiple track closures and timetable changes during its construction.

“Our crews are undertaking a variety of surface works that will support the wider transformation of South East Queensland’s rail network,’’ Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton said.

“While trains aren’t running, crews will be busy in the rail corridor constructing new stabling yards to increase the number of trains that can be accommodated on the network, track works, installing signalling infrastructure, testing signalling and communications systems, and undertaking upgrade works at Dutton Park, Salisbury and Moorooka stations.”

Acting Head of Translink, Dean Helm, said the work would support the region’s growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“If you are travelling during this period, please consider your transport options, plan ahead and allow plenty of travel time,’’ he said.

“We understand this will be an inconvenience to customers which is why these works occur mostly during the school holidays, when less customers travel on the network.

“We will have plenty of services available to help get you where you need to go, including connections to regular bus routes and rail replacement buses.

“All rail replacement bus timetables will be in the journey planner, so please check the Translink website closer to the closure date.”

To plan your journey, use the Translink app, visit translink.com.au, or call 13 12 30.