As Sydney continues to grow, the need for effective and efficient transportation solutions becomes ever more critical. One of the key transportation projects currently near shovel-ready is the extension of the Sydney Trains’ South West Rail Link (SWRL) from Leppington to the upcoming Western Sydney Airport International Terminal (WSA).
This proposed extension offers numerous advantages over the alternative plan of replacing the existing Sydney Trains line between Glenfield and Leppington with a Sydney Metro service. Here, we explore the multiple benefits of extending the SWRL to Western Sydney Airport International Terminal, with an emphasis on eco-transit principles, alongside economic, social, and logistical considerations.
Refer to EcoTransit’s submission in the NSW Parliament Inquiry into CRITICAL TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORTING THE WESTERN SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND WESTERN SYDNEY AEROTROPOLIS for a proposed Sydney Trains service plan for Western Sydney Airport.
The current Western Sydney Airport Metro line (tunnels and station boxes) are only designed for the new metro (3 carriages) and are incompatible with double-deck Sydney Trains (8 carriages), hence if the South West Rail Link were to be extended from Leppington – new parallel tunnels and station boxes would be required at Aerotropolis and Western Sydney Airport.
Economic Benefits
Cost-Effectiveness: Extending the SWRL is highly a cost-effective solution compared to converting the existing 8-carriage heavy rail service to a 3-carriage Sydney Metro service. Converting the line would necessitate substantial infrastructure changes, such as modifying platforms, updating signalling systems, and acquiring new rolling stock. These modifications would require significant investment, potentially diverting funds from other essential infrastructure projects. By contrast, extending the current rail line from Leppington involves less disruptive and more financially prudent adjustments.
Boost to Local Economy: Extending the SWRL to WSA would provide direct rail access to a major employment hub, facilitating the movement of workers and boosting the local economy. Enhanced connectivity in Western Sydney encourages investment in the region and supports the growth of local businesses. Improved access to the airport can also stimulate developments in tourism and related industries, further driving economic growth.
Social Benefits
Enhanced Connectivity: The extension of the SWRL would significantly improve connectivity for residents of Western Sydney. Direct access to the WSA would provide residents with a convenient and efficient transportation option, reducing travel times and enhancing their overall quality of life. It would also link key regions such as Liverpool and other parts of South West Sydney fostering greater social cohesion and accessibility.
Equitable Transport Solutions: Maintaining and extending the heavy rail system ensures that the existing infrastructure remains accessible to all, including people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with prams or bicycles. Sydney Trains are designed with more spacious carriages and seating arrangements, making them more comfortable and accessible compared to the more compact metro services.
Environmental Benefits
Promotion of Eco-Transit: Extending the SWRL aligns perfectly with key eco-transit principles by encouraging the use of public transportation over private cars, thus reducing traffic congestion and lowering carbon emissions. Rail transport is one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transportation, and the SWRL extension would likely increase the public’s reliance on sustainable transport options.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: The extension of the SWRL would promote a shift from car travel to rail travel, which is significantly more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Conversion of the SWRL into Sydney Metro will discourage uptake in rail as commuters seek to avoid the forced interchange at Glenfield Station. The extension of the SWRL supports the wider need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The increased use of rail transport over personal vehicles would lead to lower overall emissions, contributing to a cleaner and greener city.
Preservation of Green Spaces: By extending an existing rail line rather than converting it to Sydney Metro, the project also minimises environmental disruption. Using the current infrastructure reduces the need for extensive construction activities that can lead to habitat destruction and increased pollution. This approach supports the conservation of green spaces and reduces the ecological footprint of the project.
Logistical and Operational Benefits
Seamless Integration with Existing Network: Extending the SWRL would ensure seamless integration with the existing Sydney Trains network. Passengers would benefit from direct services to and from the new airport without needing to transfer between different rail systems. This direct connectivity is particularly beneficial for airport travellers, who often have luggage and require straightforward, hassle-free transit options.
Capacity and Frequency: While Sydney Metro has been promoted as having a higher frequency (which is only achievable due to a lag in Sydney Trains receiving digital signalling upgrades which would enable the same frequency), they do not match the capacity needs for longer distances or routes serving major transport hubs like airports. The SWRL extension can leverage the larger capacity of Sydney Trains, ensuring that the service can handle peak passenger loads, particularly during events or holiday travel periods.
Futureproofing: Extending the SWRL would be more adaptable to future needs and expansions. The traditional rail network offers greater flexibility for future extensions and modifications, ensuring that it can evolve alongside the city’s growth and changing transportation demands. Future needs and expansions can also include interoperability of the line with freight and Tram-Trains. This adaptability can be crucial in a rapidly growing metropolitan area like Sydney.
Addressing Potential Concerns
Mitigating Disruptions: Some may argue that extending the SWRL could lead to disruptions during construction. However, such disruptions can be managed through careful planning and phased construction, minimising impacts on existing services. Moreover, the long-term benefits of enhanced connectivity and economic growth far outweigh the temporary inconveniences.
Balancing Investments: Critics of extending the SWRL may point to the high initial costs. However, when considering the lifecycle costs, including maintenance and operational efficiency, extending the SWRL proves to be a more sustainable investment. Additionally, the cost savings from avoiding a full metro conversion can be redirected towards other essential infrastructure projects, benefiting the broader community.
Conclusion
Extending the Sydney Trains’ South West Rail Link from Leppington to Western Sydney Airport International Terminal presents a compelling case with multifaceted benefits. Emphasising eco-transit principles, this extension supports sustainable transportation, economic growth, and social equity. It also offers environmental sustainability and operational efficiency, aligning with the strategic goals of creating a well-connected, green, and inclusive transportation network for Sydney.
While replacing the existing Sydney Trains line with a Sydney Metro service may offer the impression of an upgrade, the extension of the SWRL provides a balanced and future-proof solution that supports the region’s long-term development and meets the immediate needs of its residents. As Sydney prepares for the future, prioritising the extension of the SWRL to Western Sydney Airport International Terminal stands out as a strategic and beneficial choice.
Recommendations
Immediate suspension of construction of Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line (Stage 1) for the Western Sydney Airport International Terminal Station, Aerotropolis Station, and the rail corridor in between both stations pending the outcome of this Inquiry into Critical Transport Infrastructure supporting the Western Sydney International Airport and Western Sydney Aerotropolis.
Western Sydney Airport International Terminal station, Aerotropolis Station, and the rail corridor in between both stations be redesigned for 4 rail tracks (2 Sydney Metro from St Marys & 2 Sydney Trains to Leppington) as part of futureproofing the benefits of extending the South West Rail Link as Sydney Trains (heavy rail) and thus enhancing network operational flexibility.
Western Sydney Airport International Terminal to have direct Sydney Trains services to City Circle via T2 Liverpool and Granville, and direct Sydney Trains services to City Circle via T8 East Hills and Sydney Airport.