Transport for NSW has announced major construction plans to improve access at one of Sydney’s busiest train stations, Redfern.
Being done as part of the NSW Government’s Transport Access Program, the work includes the addition of lift access to the station’s platforms 6 and 7, an improved access point at the station’s northern ‘Lawson Street’ entrance, and the addition of fencing and lighting at various points to improve security.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the work was being done following an extensive local public feedback stage.
“When these improvements are completed, the station will be more accessible for customers, making their transport journey easier and more efficient,” the spokesperson said.
“I thank the community for taking the time to provide feedback on the proposal when plans were on public display in December and January.”
Transport for NSW announced on Friday it had received planning approval for the changes, and said early work will begin today (Monday, April 13).
From today through to Thursday, April 16, work will be carried out at night between 6pm and 5am to relocate underground cables and pipes near the lift site.
There will also be some excavating work from 5am on Saturday, April 18 to 1am on Monday, April 20, to prepare footings for the new lift.
Major construction work will take place in coming months.
“We are completing the work at night and on weekends to minimise disruption to rail services and Redfern Station customers,” the spokesperson said.
“The improvements at Redfern Station will include lift access to platforms 6 and 7 as well as improved access from Lawson Street.”
Redfern’s platforms 6 and 7 service the busy T2 inner-west line.
“For the first time for customers in a wheelchair, the elderly, parents with prams, and travellers with luggage will be able to access trains more comfortably,” the spokesperson said.
“I know this upgrade will make a real difference for local residents, and encourage more people to choose public transport.”
The NSW Government says its Transport Access Program is intended to deliver accessible, modern and integrated transport infrastructure.
This is a stupid decision. Not because it is providing wheelchair access. But because it is only one platform when it should be the 6 platforms that are in use. Platforms 2,3,4 and 5 should also have lifts in addition to 6 and 7.