By Tara Murray
Plans for a new above ground train station at Melbourne Airport have been questioned by the airport’s ground transport chief Jai McDermott.
The state and federal governments released the business case for the Melbourne Airport Rail Link on Wednesday, September 21, which will result in trains running between Sunshine and the airport.
The business case revealed new details about the rail link, including plans for a station at the airport.
The business case assesses a new elevated station at Melbourne Airport as the best solution for passengers as it will better integrate with the precinct and have fewer impacts on planned future developments at the airport.
An elevated station, in a location consistent with the airport master plan, is expected to be quicker and more cost effective to deliver and reduce disruption to airport users during construction.
Mr McDermott said while Melbourne Airport has long been one of the most vocal supporters of a rail link to the city, discussions continue with the state government in relation to the station.
“We are yet to agree on station location and design,” he said.
“Melbourne Airport’s preference has been and remains an underground station, which provides a superior passenger experience, safeguards for future connectivity and is appropriate for Victoria’s international gateway.
“It is important that the new rail station works for all airport users, not just those who arrive by train, and that it is a station all Victorians can all be proud of.”
Construction is scheduled to begin on the above ground station later this year with the completion projected in 2029.
The comprehensive design package includes an elevated viaduct on Airport Drive, Tullamarine, a bridge structure over the M80 Ring Road, major upgrades to Sunshine station and a number of track works across existing rail lines.
A new train station at Keilor East is also proposed. As reported by Star Weekly last year, Hume council supported Moonee Valley’s campaign for the station.
Victorian Transport Minister Jacinta Allen said not only will the link better connect Victorians to the city, the suburbs and the world, but it will repay every cent invested in opportunities for local workers and businesses.”
