Perth prepares for biggest public transport shutdown

Thornlie Station Exterior (artist impression only, subject to change). Image courtesy of METRONET.

The Western Australia Public Transport Authority is preparing commuters for major disruptions that will take place on the Mandurah Line from late December for around 20 to 25 days to widen the tracks, making way for the future Thornlie-Cockburn Link.

During this disruption the Mandurah Line will close between Aubin Grove and Elizabeth Quay stations. Services will also run a reduced schedule between Mandurah and Aubin Grove stations.

This will be the biggest ever shutdown of Perth’s public transport network.

The Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be Perth’s first cross line connection, making travel around the city by train more flexible and providing a higher level of public transport service to Perth’s southern suburbs.

The 17.5-kilometre project includes new stations at Nicholson and Ranford roads, changes to Thornlie and Cockburn stations and relocating 11 kilometres of freight railway.

Work is underway to start preparing commuters for the temporary closure, with the Public Transport Authority currently surveying commuters at stations along the Mandurah Line, including at Perth Underground, to help understand potential impacts of the closure.

Other travel options will be considered, including encouraging commuters to travel along the Armadale Line and fast replacement bus services.

The Public Transport Authority will arrange replacement bus services for affected commuters and specific services for key workers, including at Fiona Stanley Hospital.

Western Australia Transport Minister Rita Saffioti thanks commuters for their patience, noting that the Public Transport Authority will try to minimise disruptions.

“We know this is frustrating but it is also exciting – these works are a key step in constructing the Thornlie-Cockburn Link, which will provide southern suburbs commuters with new transport options in the future, including a more direct connection to Perth Stadium,” the Minister noted.

Commuters can also have their say by visiting https://www.buildingfortomorrow.wa.gov.au