A month after the launch of the new Sydney Metro segment, the transportation landscape in Sydney has become more efficient for many commuters. However, a significant change is about to unfold for passengers in Sydney’s west as the T3 Bankstown line between Sydenham and Bankstown prepares for closure to facilitate its conversion into a metro line.
Closure Announcement
Effective Monday, September 30, the train service along this route will be suspended, with a complimentary bus service introduced to connect the affected stations during the conversion process.
Future Benefits
Once completed, the new metro line will provide commuters with a fast and direct connection to the city, featuring metro trains scheduled to run every four minutes during peak hours. Additionally, all 11 stations along the line will undergo major upgrades to ensure full accessibility in accordance with the standards of existing Sydney Metro stations. However, in the interim, passengers can expect longer travel times due to the bus replacement service.
Affected Stations
The T3 Bankstown line stations closing on September 30 include:
- Marrickville
- Dulwich Hill
- Hurlstone Park
- Canterbury
- Campsie
- Belmore
- Lakemba
- Wiley Park
- Punchbowl
Replacement Bus Service
In response to the transport disruption, Transport for NSW has opted to implement a free bus service between the closed stations. A fleet of dedicated pink buses, referred to as the Southwest Link, will operate every two to four minutes during peak times along the following routes:
SW1 (All Stops): Sydenham, Marrickville, Dulwich Hill, Hurlstone Park, Canterbury, Campsie, Belmore, Lakemba, Wiley Park, Punchbowl, Bankstown.
SW2 (Limited Stops): Sydenham, Belmore, Lakemba, Wiley Park, Punchbowl, Bankstown.
SW3 (Limited Stops): Sydenham, Canterbury, Campsie.
Additional Disruptions
Adding to the transportation challenges, construction on the new T6 Lidcombe and Bankstown line is ongoing, with industrial action causing delays. As a result, buses, including the 8AT3 Express and the 8T3 All Stops, will replace trains along additional stretches of the line for an unspecified duration.
Government Assurance
Transport for NSW has assured the public that the T6 line will be operational “as soon as possible.” Transport Minister Jo Haylen acknowledged the difficulties ahead, stating, “Make no mistake – this will be a tough time.”
Timeline for Conversion
Earlier this year, Transport for NSW provided an estimated timeline for the conversion, predicting that the work would take over 12 months.
Conclusion
While the wait may be long, the transformation of this 130-year-old train line into a modern metro system promises to enhance travel efficiency across the region. In the meantime, commuters are encouraged to utilize the bus service at no cost and perhaps enjoy a podcast during their journey, even if it takes a little longer.
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