The federal Labor opposition has promised to extend its planned project of station car park expansions to Leppington Station in south-west Sydney, partnering up with the NSW Labor state opposition to deliver the funding.
Shadow infrastructure and transport minister, Anthony Albanese, announced last Friday that Labor would invest $16 million to build an additional 300 car parking spots at Leppington train station, should it win government in the next election.
The funding would form part of Labor’s $300 million National Park and Ride Fund for new or expanded car parks at public transport hubs.
Albanese said that the existing 850-space car park is too small to meet growing demand, forcing commuters to park on surrounding roads as far a kilometre away and then walk to catch their trains.
“We’ll invest in better public transport across the country, but also in expanding parking facilities so commuters can catch their trains and get to work with a minimum of fuss,” Albanese said.
“This is as practical measure that will make a real difference to the lives of commuters.”
Federal and State Labor have said that they would each contribute $8 million to deliver the 300 additional car parking spaces.
“Whether it’s free public transport for children, fare refunds for late trains or a new commuter car park at Leppington, Labor will make your commute just that little bit easier,” NSW Labor leader Michael Daley said.
“Instead of circling for a car park, you should be home with your family.”
Federal Member for Werriwa Anne Stanley said that the rapid development of Sydney’s South West made it critical that infrastructure investment kept pace with demand.
“We know because we have listened to our community that it is essential that commuters are able to access parking to make their journey to work as stress free as possible,’’ Stanley said.
“Improving parking at Leppington Station will also ease the pressure on parking at other stations like Edmondson Park and Glenfield and will shorten travel times and allow people to have more time to enjoy their families, exercise, study and other interests.”