The final section of Sydney’s $23bn Southwest Metro line will open to passengers on 30 October, ending more than two years of major disruptions for commuters.
The Metro’s new driverless trains will depart Bankstown station from 4.31am and carry passengers across the city to Tallawong in its northwest (7News).
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the opening would be a “huge moment” for south-west Sydney. “We know it’s been a really difficult last few years … I hope that you’re rewarded as a result of staying in and digging in through that period,” he said (SMH).
The opening had hinged on final safety approval for passenger services by the national rail regulator, which the government received on Wednesday (SMH).
The new Metro will deliver 50% more passenger capacity than the old T3 Bankstown Line it replaces, and around 48,000 passenger trips are expected to be made on a typical weekday during the 8am and 9am peak (Sydney Metro).