The NSW Government has announced that seven new stations will receive upgrades as part of an election commitment from the Minns Government to accelerate accessibility improvements.
The 136-year-old Macquarie Fields Station is one of seven new stations in line for an upgrade. The station has never been fully accessible, with the City-bound Platform 1 only accessible via stairs.
More than 10,000 passengers travel through the station every week and the community is home to 2,000 people aged over 60,
Upgrades to Macquarie Fields Station will include a new footbridge with lifts, stairs, a covered walkway to the platforms, a new family accessible toilet, improved lighting and CCTV. There will be six accessible parking spaces, two new accessible drop-off spaces and a relocated bus stop on Railway Parade. Access to the station will be improved with a new pedestrian crossing and signage.
Having completed early stakeholder engagement with vulnerable members of the community, Transport for NSW will undertake targeted stakeholder engagement over the coming months. The community will be invited to have their say on the draft concept design toward the end of the year.
Major construction is expected to begin in late 2024, following the development of planning approval documentation, with work taking around 18 months to complete.
NSW Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said Macquarie Park was overdue for an accessibility upgrade.
“Macquarie Fields Station dates back to 1888 and has long been in need of a facelift. I’m thrilled that the NSW Government is able to deliver this and give the local community the transport interchange they deserve,” Minister Haylen said.
“We know the community has been advocating for these improvements for a long time and they will soon have the opportunity to have their say on this much-needed project.
“Transport hubs should be safe and welcoming places for everyone. That’s why the NSW Government is committing $300 million to the new Safe Accessible Transport Program, to make sure our public transport is as safe and inclusive as possible.”
Other station slated for upgrades include Moss Vale, Lewisham, Griffith, Bardwell Park, Chester Hill and Queanbeyan.
