Downer EDI to deliver $460m light rail in Newcastle

Transport for NSW has given the green light for the Newcastle Light Rail project, formally appointing Downer EDI as the Managing Contractor to deliver the fixed infrastructure for the rail line. 

Under the contract, Downer will work with Transport for NSW to design, construct and commission 2.7 kilometres of light rail track, six light rail stops, a stabling and maintenance facility, road works and associated precinct works. The track will run from the new transport interchange at Wickham to Pacific Park.

NSW's Minister for Transport and infrastructure Andrew Constance spoke to Downer's track record in projects of this kind. 

"Downer is a leader in the provision of transport infrastructure, and has a strong presence in the Hunter region. Downer brings extensive experience and a well-coordinated team of practiced professionals to the light rail project," said a spokesmen for the minister. 

"A progressive construction program will be developed by the Managing Contractor so that construction focuses on one precinct at a time. In addition  the project team will work with Newcastle City Council and other stakeholders to develop a Parking Strategy, a Cycleway Strategy and an Urban Design Concept for Hunter and Scott streets."

The Chief Executive Officer of Downer, Grant Fenn, affirmed Downer was delighted to have been chosen to contribute to the revitalisation of NSW's second largest city. 

The formal determination for the project followed a competitive tender process, which was overseen by an independent Probity Adviser.

Detailed design for the construction phase can now begin.

The contract is scheduled to commence in August 2016 and be completed in 2019.

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