Macquarie Fields is the first Sydney station project to go to construction under the NSW Government’s $800.7m Safe Accessible Transport program, which will see important upgrades across the public transport network to improve accessibility, safety and amenity.
Key features of the project include a new footbridge with lifts, new stairs, a new entry forecourt, with improved canopy coverage. There will also be accessible parking spaces, accessible kiss and ride spaces, improvements to bike parking, and upgrades to the existing bus stop on Railway Parade.
A new family accessible toilet, a new unisex ambulant toilet, new hearing loops, platform regrading and tactile indicators will integrate with safety improvements including enhanced lighting, CCTV, and wayfinding signage.
The upgrade of Macquarie Fields station has now been greenlighted to move to final design and construction with the contract for detailed design and construction awarded to Arenco in November.
Geotechnical and visual investigations are now underway, and work will really be ramping up after Christmas with site setup and construction.
Planning approval was granted following public display of the Review of Environmental Factors and community consultation. Feedback was very positive, with requests for increased accessible and kiss and ride parking spaces, improved canopy coverage, improved lighting and safer road crossing points and improved design integration with the existing environment.
Consultation with the community and other stakeholders including local people with disability and carers will continue through the final design to ensure the upgrades better meet their needs.
All feedback received during consultation has been carefully considered and responses have been published in the determination report which is available to read at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/macquariefields.
Other station upgrades in the final design stage include Chester Hill and Bardwell Park, which are due to commence construction early next year.
QUOTE FROM MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE FIELDS ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG MP
“I am thrilled to be here today together with Macquarie Fields locals to mark the start of work on the Macquarie Fields station upgrade. It has been a collaborative effort and a lot of hard work to get this important upgrade into a construction phase.
“This is an exciting stage of the project, which will make the station safer and accessible for all.
“Importantly, once complete, the station will finally have lifts which will make a world of difference to people with disability, the elderly, and people with luggage or prams.”
