CPB, Downer chosen for Metronet projects

A consortium comprising national firms CPB Contractors and Downer has been selected as the preferred contractor for the Yanchep and Thornlie-Cockburn rail projects, with construction expected to commence in May next year, well after the state government's goal of starting this year.

The NEWest Alliance was chosen ahead of METROconnext, which is led by Melbourne-based Coleman Rail, and Western Australian contractors Clough and Georgiou Group.

Works for the Yanchep extension include the addition of 14.5 kilometres of rail to the existing Joondalup line and the construction of three train stations at Yanchep, Alkimos and Eglinton.

Two train stations at Ranford Road and Nicholson Road will also be built under the 17.5 kilometre Thornlie-Cockburn link project.

The Yanchep and Thornlie projects have a combined budget of $1.056 billion.

The alliance-style contract, delivered by Downer and CIMIC Group subsidiary CPB Contractors, will be funded by both the WA and federal governments.

The government said early works, such as site clearing and geotechnical investigations, have been underway for several months.

Downer said design work will commence immediately, with construction expected to commence in May 2020 and the project due to be completed in 2023.

The government expressed the schedule differently, saying major construction works are due to complete in 2021, with train services expected to operate in 2022.

Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti said the state government would have six rail projects underway next year.

“Along with our record investment in roads, the impact of the McGowan government’s Metronet investment will be felt in the economy in the short-medium term and will set the foundation for Perth to grow sustainably in the long term,” Ms Saffioti said.

More than 3,000 jobs are expected to be created over the life of both projects, the government said.

Federal member for Pearce Christian Porter said the Australian government has invested $13.5 billion into land and transport infrastructure projects in WA since 2013.

"This rail line will provide more accessible and cost-effective public transport for communities in our northern suburbs, reducing congestion on the roads and connecting them to the city," Mr Porter said.

"In addition to the local jobs created by this project, the new stations and improved transport accessibility will provide new opportunities for businesses and help to stimulate the local economy."