Work is underway on upgrades to Yarloop Station in south-west Western Australia, including the replacement of the currently existing low-level platform with a raised platform that complies with Disability and Discrimination Act (DDA) standards.
The new platform – six metres-long and fully sheltered, with seating for three – will be accessible by ramp and stairs. New lighting will be installed according to DDA requirements.
Along with the new platform, the station’s carpark and access road will be upgraded: three new car bays (including an accessible ACROD bay) will be added along with new kerbing and bitumen surface, while accessible paths, connecting the pedestrian level crossing with the car park and the new platform, are to be constructed.
The upgrades will cost $500,000, with the funding coming out of the McGowan Labor Government’s $32 million Rail Future Fund established in the 2017-18 WA budget.
“This is part of a wider election commitment to revitalise the Australind train service from Perth to Bunbury to bring tourists to the South-West, and offer a faster journey between Bunbury and Perth,” state transport minister Rita Saffioti said.
“These works are vital, not just for people in wheelchairs but for passengers with prams and luggage as well – it will make it easier for all members of the public to access the Australind train as it travels through Yarloop.”
The Australind service operates twice daily between Bunbury and Perth, stopping at Yarloop Station.
“The Australind train service is one of the main modes of transport in the Murray-Wellington electorate, and its revitalisation will make travel to Bunbury and Perth easier and quicker for people in the electorate,” said member for Murray-Wellington, Robyn Clarke.
“Upgrading Yarloop train station is an important part of rebuilding the town following the 2016 fires and will make the town more accessible to the public.”
Work on the carpark has been underway since December last year, while the platform construction will begin in the middle of April and be completed by late May 2018. The whole project is expected to be finished by the middle of the year.