By XAVIER SMERDON
AUSTRALIA’S biggest public transport project is one step closer to being a reality after the Federal Government announced a shortlist of companies bidding to construct a vital section of the Regional Rail Link.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese, revealed a short list of three consortiums interested in delivering the Werribee West Junction.
The Werribee West Junction will connect the existing Melbourne to Geelong line to the new rail alignment through the Wyndham Vale and Tarneit growth areas to Deer Park and on to Southern Cross Station.
The short list is made up of a joint venture between Leighton Contractors and Downer Edi Works, McConnell Dowell and another joint venture between Fulton Hogan, John Holland and Coleman Rail.
Mr Albanese said the consortiums will now be invited to develop and submit fully costed proposals, with the final contract expected to be awarded in the second half of 2012.
“This is another significant work package which will be critical to the overall success of the project,” Mr Albanese said.
“In partnership with the Victorian Government, we are determined to make Melbourne as well as regional centres such as Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo even better places to live, work and raise a family, including by investing in new, modern passenger rail infrastructure.
“Without a doubt, the Regional Rail Link project ticks all the right boxes.”
Victorian Public Transport Minister, Terry Mulder, said the successful bidder will be required to build a new two track bridge over the existing railway lines and Bulban Rd as well as realign Bulban Rd to improve visibility and safety for motorists.
Demolition work has already begun in Footscray in preparation for the new rail link.
