Global law firm Ashurst has advised Sydney Metro on its $41 million design, supply and install contract for the integrated Southwest Metro Platform Screen Doors (PSD) and Mechanical Gap Fillers (MGF). The project involves upgrading and converting the existing T3 Bankstown line to a fully automated metro standard between Marrickville and Bankstown stations. This is the first project in which MGFs have been introduced within Australia and paves the way for future Australian rail upgrades and improvements in accessibility across rail networks.
The PSDs are designed to keep people and objects safe from the gaps between trains and platforms and allow trains to get in and out of stations faster. The MGF will work automatically, extending quickly from the platform to the train before the platform screen doors open, allowing safe and easy access for customers. PSD and MGF are key components of the Sydney Metro City & Southwest project as they enable fully accessible and automated metro operations.
Partner Bree Miechel commented:
"We are excited to have advised Sydney Metro on the first MGF projects in Australia. The integrated PSD and MGF systems will revolutionise how commuters travel around Sydney. The technology will be fundamental to the operational reliability and timely running of services for the metro."
The Ashurst team was led by Bree Miechel, who was assisted by: partners Laura Hillhouse and Julie Ma, senior associates Andrew Higgins and Marya Atmeh, and associates Dan Trevanion and Andreena Kardamis (Transport and infrastructure); partner Harvey Weaver (Transport and infrastructure, London); and partner Adam Firth and senior associate Ben Judge (Dispute resolution).
