Parramatta light rail at Ermington, Melrose Park
LIGHT rail could relieve some of the traffic congestion along Victoria Rd if the proposed second stage of Parramatta light rail goes ahead.
Northern District Times
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LIGHT rail could relieve some of the traffic congestion along Victoria Rd if the proposed second stage of Parramatta light rail goes ahead.
The State Government recently announced its preferred routes for stages one and two of the project.
The first stage will link Carlingford and Westmead with 16 stops, including Camellia and Parramatta. This is due in 2023.
The preferred route for stage two was announced in October.
From South St at Rydalmere, the line will continue east to Melrose Park, south to Wentworth Point via the Parramatta River, and then Sydney Olympic Park.
While the second stage is still subject to a final business case next year, people at Ermington and Melrose Park can expect major changes if it goes ahead.
The route would link South St with Boronia St at Ermington.
This poses two logistical hurdles to planners.
The line must pass Silverwater Rd, as well as Ken Newman Park at Ermington.
The government will need to explore above and below ground options for these crossings.
Power lines pass over the park, which would also need to be negotiated by an above ground crossing.
South St and Boronia St, which are residential, have the possibility of being widened for the light rail.
Both streets are lined by footpaths and grass verges.
These are public property, and means the government may not have to acquire frontages of people’s homes.
The line then continues east along Hope St before heading along Wharf Rd.
Melrose Park Public School is near the intersection of these two streets and may also need special consideration.
The Parramatta River crossing would likely accommodate pedestrians and cyclists too, but not cars.
Like stage one, this route would have 10-12 stops and see trams travel in both directions.
A spokesman for Transport for NSW said it worked closely with stakeholders, including Parramatta Council, to determine the preferred route for both stages.
The public and other stakeholders will have the chance to provide feedback in the first half of next year, he said..
“More planning work is required to develop the detailed design for the project, so it is too early to say exactly what the impacts will be on individual streets,” the spokesman said.
“As this work is undertaken, Transport for NSW will discuss potential impacts with community and stakeholders.”