Work on Sydney Metro West project set to start in 2020

The Federal Government has been urged to climb on board the Metro West project after NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian promised to start work on it next year.

The Federal Government has been urged to climb on board the Metro West project after NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian promised to start work on it next year.

Ms Berejiklian yesterday pledged an extra $3.4 billion for the project, taking the state funding to $6.4 billion for Metro West, which will slash travel times between Parramatta and the city to just 20 minutes.

However, she did not say how much it would cost in total. And the Federal Coalition Government is yet to come forward with a funding commitment.

The proposed route of the Sydney Metro West.

NSW Labor has promised $5 billion for Metro West, with another $3 billion in federal funds if Bill Shorten wins the next election.

Western Sydney Business Chamber executive director David Borger welcomed both major political parties’ commitment to building the “most significant infrastructure project in the country”.

“What we need now is a strong commitment from the Federal Government to come to the table on this project to ensure it happens sooner rather than later,” Mr Borger said.

Western Sydney Business Chamber executive director David Borger.

“We need Metro West as soon as possible. The 20-minute journey time is a good outcome and will make Parramatta a more attractive destination for business and investment.

“Sydney Metro West cannot come at the expense of Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2. Both of these projects are crucial to creating the sought-after 30 minute city in the heart of Sydney.”

The Metro West line will include stations at Westmead, Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock, The Bays Precinct and the City.

Rydalmere and Pyrmont are also being considered as additional stations.

Tunnelling work would begin in 2021, Ms Berejikilan said, with the first services to start in 2028.

“We have worked our guts out to get the budget in a strong position and now we are able to deliver crucial rail projects like Metro West quicker than anyone thought was possible,” the Premier said.