Sydney commits to new North West Rail Link

Sydney, already widely considered one of the greatest cities in the world, looks set to become an even better place to live, with news that construction is soon to begin on the North West Rail Link.

The long-delayed North West Rail Link project was first announced way back in 1998, but has spent many years in limbo due to ongoing debates about the viability of the venture. 

However the NSW government has now announced that it has officially awarded a $1.15 million contract to the Thiess John Holland Dragados joint venture to begin building tunnels for the Link.

In a statement released June 25, NSW premier Barry O'Farrell confirmed that the Rail Link project "is on track and on schedule", and digging is set to begin towards the end of 2014.

"We have now passed the point of no return, the first major contract has been awarded and the Western Sydney community can rest assured the NSW Liberals & National government will deliver this critical public transport infrastructure project," said Mr O'Farrell.

"It’s now full steam ahead on the North West Rail Link," added minister for transport Gladys Berejiklian.

Upon completion, the North West Rail Link is expected to feature eight new stations, and will provide infrastructure for the operation of up to 12 new single deck trains an hour in peak conditions.

The single deck trains will be able to transport around 50 per cent more people than the existing double deck trains over a single hour, and it is likely that the service will be faster and more reliable than other commuting options.

While the Link won't connect up with any of the popular Inner West suburbs, it will make Sydney a generally more pleasant place to live and improve public transport for all residents of the NSW capital.

If you are currently looking to buy or sell Balmain, Rozelle, Lilyfield or Birchgrove property, or any Inner West real estate for that matter, get in touch with the professionals at Cooper's Agency to find out how we can help.