METRONET's Thornlie-Cockburn Link (TCL) has been given the green light, with all necessary State and Federal environmental approvals now received.
Federal approval was received recently from the Department of the Environment and Energy, adding to State approvals already granted from the Environmental Protection Authority and Environment Minister Stephen Dawson.
The environmental approvals follow the start of early works in late 2019 to lengthen the Karel Avenue bridge to make room for the new rail corridor. Main Roads also began early works for TCL's tie-in to the Mandurah Line as part of the ongoing Kwinana Freeway widening works.
The Thornlie-Cockburn Link will close a 14.5 kilometre rail gap between the Mandurah and Armadale lines. New stations will be built at Ranford Road and Nicholson Road, while Cockburn Central and Thornlie stations will both receive significant upgrades.
Environmental submissions for the project included detailed responses to significant environmental issues raised in feedback from the public and regulatory agencies.
Clearing of native vegetation is required before construction can begin, and the environmental conditions outlined in these approvals will ensure this is done in an environmentally responsible way.
Fauna trapping will also be carried out in habitat areas by a licensed contractor before clearing, with any captured fauna then relocated to a suitable location under advice from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
CPB Contractors and Downer are tasked to build the combined Thornlie-Cockburn Link and Yanchep Rail Extension projects.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Environmental and heritage considerations are a key priority for the Thornlie-Cockburn Link and these approvals mark an important step forward for this much anticipated project.
"The McGowan Government is strongly committed to sustainable development, and we want to ensure this important project provides the amenities and features the community wants, and that it is delivered in a sustainable way.
"This new rail service will deliver more than 1,600 jobs and create greater transport connectivity and convenience throughout our southern suburbs. This will make our State even more liveable and commercially stronger."
As stated by Thornlie MLA Chris Tallentire:
"It is important that we meet our environmental obligations for the sustainable delivery of our infrastructure commitments. It is fantastic to see that we have reached yet another important milestone for this project.
"The METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Link will bust congestion and provide our local community with greater connectivity with Perth city and the broader metro area. We are delivering on our local commitments and creating jobs for our local community."
As stated by Jandakot MLA Yaz Mubarakai:
"I'm thrilled that we are another step closer to our growing community having much better access to employment, sporting and recreation destinations around Jandakot and out to the eastern central business district.
"It's so important that we get this critical infrastructure project right, and this includes ensuring our plan is environmentally sound - I'm glad that the first east-west rail connection in Perth is on the way."
