Project Profile: The Morley-Ellenbrook Line, Perth

The Morley-Ellenbrook Line is a 21-kilometre heavy rail extension integrated into Perth’s METRONET system, providing a high-capacity transport solution for the city’s northeastern growth corridor. Engineered to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion, the project features six new stations and advanced Automatic Train Control (ATC) technology. Its completion marks a significant milestone in Western Australia’s urban transport infrastructure strategy.

Technical Specifications

The Morley-Ellenbrook Line is a 21km dual-track, standard gauge railway extending from the existing Midland Line at Bayswater. The line’s signalling infrastructure is anchored by an Automatic Train Control (ATC) system, enhancing operational safety and allowing for increased service frequency. Construction involved significant earthworks, including the installation of approximately 65,000 concrete railway sleepers, as well as the erection of major structures like tunnels and viaducts to navigate the urban landscape. The line is serviced by new C-Series trains, which are specifically designed for high-capacity urban transit. These trains feature four doors per carriage to optimize passenger flow and reduce dwell times at the six new stations: Morley, Noranda, Malaga, Bennett Springs, Whiteman, and Ellenbrook.

Key Takeaways

• Regional Connectivity and Decongestion: The line directly addresses traffic congestion in Perth’s northeastern suburbs by providing a 30-minute journey from Ellenbrook to the Perth CBD, significantly reducing reliance on private vehicles and improving regional mobility.
• Economic Stimulus and Urban Development: The project generated an estimated 6,500 jobs during its construction and is designed to act as a catalyst for transit-oriented development, fostering the growth of vibrant, connected communities around the new station precincts.
• Network Modernisation and Integration: By incorporating advanced ATC signalling and high-efficiency rolling stock, the project enhances the technological capability of the Transperth network. The transformation of Bayswater Station into a major transport hub seamlessly integrates the new line with the Midland and Forrestfield-Airport Link lines, creating a more resilient and interconnected system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the Morley-Ellenbrook Line open?

The Morley-Ellenbrook Line officially opened for passenger services in late 2024, providing a new public transport link for Perth’s northeastern suburbs including Ellenbrook, Brabham, and Malaga.

Who built the Morley-Ellenbrook Line?

The project was delivered by key industry alliances. The MELconnx Alliance, a consortium of Laing O’Rourke Australia Construction and Arup, was responsible for the main line and station construction. The upgraded Bayswater Station was constructed by the Evolve Bayswater Alliance, comprising Coleman Rail and Decmil.