Lessons learned from global light rail projects have enabled new efficiencies and collaborative innovations on Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail.

Laing O’Rourke is proud to have played a major role in the design of Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail project as sub-contractor to the Great River City Light Rail consortium, the major contractor delivering the Supply, Operate and Maintain contract.

The Parramatta Light Rail is one of the NSW Government’s latest major infrastructure projects being delivered to serve a growing Sydney.

Our role is to deliver the design and construction of the stabling and maintenance facility and the above ground fit-out of the 16 light rail stops, traction power substations and overhead wiring.

The innovation

To create real efficiencies and ensure on-time delivery, we’re taking learnings from a previous Laing O’Rourke light rail project in Manchester, UK, and designing a modular kit of parts for the 16 light rail stops.

It will help us to focus successfully on various contractual requirements, including:

• minimising work during evenings and other busy times
• committing to employing local workers
• accepting penalties if work is significantly delayed.

The outcome

The first stage of the Parramatta Light Rail project will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia, with a two-way overground track spanning 12-kilometres and 16 light rail stops. Passenger services are expected to commence in 2023, with ‘turn-up-and-go’ services  every 7.5 minutes during peak times.