$11 billion Metro Tunnel project ready for major construction in 2018

The final contracts to get major works underway on the multi-billion dollar Metro Tunnel project in Victoria have been signed.

“We are building the world-class turn up and go train network Victoria deserves – wit more jobs, more stations and more trains, more often.

“We don’t just talk about building the big roads and public transport Victoria needs – we’re getting it done,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

The $6 billion tunnels and stations package has been signed with the Cross Yarra Partnership – a consortium comprising of LendLease Engineering, John Holland Bouygues Construction and Capella Capital – after an extensive competitive process with experienced tunnelling and construction contractors.

This is the biggest contract on Victoria’s largest public transport project and it paves the way for major construction works to begin on the tunnel and stations in 2018.

The final contract for the roll-out of high-capacity signalling on the Metro Tunnel has also been signed with CPB Contractors and Bombardier Transportation. The $1.1 billion Rail Systems Alliance will be allowing trains to safely run closer together, which enable trains to run more often.

High capacity signalling will allow the State’s new 65 High Capacity Metro Trains to run from Sunbury to Cranbourne and Pakenham as well as through the Metro Tunnel.

The $11 billion Metro Tunnel project is expected to create up to 7,000 jobs – which included 500 apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets.

“We’re not wasting a minute delivering Metro Tunnel, which will create jobs and a new community on the doorstep of the CBD.

“We’re getting things done, ramping up construction on this massive project to deliver a world class train network for Victorians where trains come so often you can throw away the timetable,” Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan said.

Early works on the project are already underway and major construction works are set to begin in 2018, with completion expected by 2026.

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Source: Premier of Victoria