NSW begins planning for stage 2 of Sydney's Parramatta Light Rail

The Government of New South Wales (NSW) in Australia has started planning stage 2 of the Parramatta Light Rail, which will provide a connection to Sydney Olympic Park.

New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian noted that the planning for Stage 2 is expected to be completed next year.

Berejiklian said: “Our preferred 9km route will connect with Stage 1 of the project north of the Parramatta River through the suburbs of Ermington, Melrose Park, Wentworth Point and on to Sydney Olympic Park.”

The provincial government has also begun working on a business case for the preferred route north of Parramatta River, which is regarded as the best option for ensuring an integrated transport system and land-use plan for the precincts.

NSW Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said: “We are going to finalise a business case for this project by the end of 2018 and are working with communities to ensure we can maximise the potential for this option.

"The government is expected to determine the investment and timing of Stage 2's construction following the completion of the final business case."

“We know it will provide a direct, frequent and reliable public transport connection for these areas, and connects the new Western Sydney University campus at Sydney Olympic Park with its three campuses serviced by Stage 1.”

The government is expected to determine the investment and timing of Stage 2's construction following the completion of the final business case.

The Environmental Impact Statement for Stage 1 of the project is currently on exhibition, while expressions of interest have been sought for the design, development, operation and maintenance of the network.

Construction of Stage 1 will be subject to planning approval and is scheduled to commence next year, with operations slated to begin in 2023.