Gold Coast Rail: ActivUs Alliance Boosts Faster Rail Project

ActivUs Alliance Awarded Key Contract for Gold Coast Faster Rail Project

Queensland’s ambitious plan to modernize its rail infrastructure has taken a significant step forward with the announcement that the ActivUs Alliance has been awarded a design and pre-construction contract for the main works package on the 20 km Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail project. This project, announced today, represents a crucial investment in Queensland’s transport network, aimed at easing congestion and improving connectivity between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The contract covers the expansion of the existing line from Kuraby to Beenleigh to a four-track configuration, along with associated civil works, infrastructure upgrades, and the implementation of advanced signalling technologies. The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads and Queensland Rail, in partnership with the ActivUs Alliance, is driving this project, with the goal of enhanced rail operations for commuters. With the planned completion in 2032, this project is crucial to address the growing travel demand in the region and is designed to prepare the area for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This article will delve into the key aspects of this significant railway project.

Alliance Composition and Scope of Work

The ActivUs Alliance, comprising Acciona, CPB Contractors, UGL, SMEC, and WSP, brings together a formidable consortium of industry leaders with extensive experience in railway infrastructure. Their collective expertise spans civil engineering, construction, signalling, and project management. The contract awarded to the Alliance covers a comprehensive scope of works including the expansion of the existing line between Kuraby and Beenleigh from two tracks to four. This expansion is critical to alleviate the existing bottleneck on the network. Other elements include all civil works, and civil structures, along with the removal of level crossings. Furthermore, the project aims to upgrade stations and bus stops. Additional improvements involve the construction of park & ride and kiss & ride facilities. The project’s design phase is already underway, and is accompanied by project planning activities. Site investigations are also planned to ensure the project’s success.

Addressing Capacity Constraints and Operational Improvements

A significant challenge in the current rail network is the capacity constraint between Kuraby and Beenleigh, where trains share a single track in each direction. This bottleneck often necessitates holding all-stop Beenleigh trains to allow Gold Coast express trains to pass through, leading to delays and reduced service efficiency. The expansion to four tracks will significantly increase capacity, enabling more frequent and reliable services. This improved efficiency will result in the provision of additional capacity for passenger services on the corridor. The project also includes upgrades to conventional signalling systems to accommodate the European Train Control System (ETCS), which will improve safety. This upgrade of the rail systems is critical to the modernisation of the signalling infrastructure along this vital corridor.

Enhanced Passenger Experience and Network Integration

Beyond track expansion, the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail project prioritizes passenger experience and network integration. The removal of level crossings will improve safety and reduce delays. Simultaneously, the project involves upgrades to stations and bus stops, as well as the provision of new park & ride and kiss & ride facilities to improve connectivity. Furthermore, the project incorporates improvements to the local road network and enhanced walking and cycling connections along the corridor. All of these improvements are designed to enhance multimodal transport. Moreover, the project will integrate with adjacent construction packages and the existing rail network, ensuring a cohesive and efficient transport system for the region.

Signalling and System Upgrades: ETCS Implementation

A key component of the project involves the deployment of the European Train Control System (ETCS). ETCS is a modern, standardized train protection system designed to improve safety and increase line capacity. The project will involve modifications to the existing signalling infrastructure to accommodate the new system. The ETCS implementation will allow for the provision of accurate real-time train positioning and speed monitoring, providing an additional layer of safety to the travelling public.

Conclusion

The award of the design and pre-construction contract to the ActivUs Alliance marks a critical step forward in the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail project. This project is designed to alleviate existing congestion, enhance connectivity, and prepare the region for future growth, including the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The project’s comprehensive scope, including the expansion to four tracks, ETCS implementation, and improved passenger facilities, will transform the rail network. The successful completion of this project by 2032 is vital, aligning with the Queensland Government’s vision for an integrated transport system that is efficient, sustainable, and accessible. This ambitious project sets a precedent for future rail infrastructure development in Australia, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, advanced technology, and a focus on passenger experience. The industry implications are significant, underscoring the need for skilled workforces and the adoption of innovative technologies. The future outlook for this project is promising, with the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for residents and visitors in the region.

Company Summary (Optional)

Acciona is a global leader in infrastructure development and renewable energy. In the railway sector, they specialize in construction and maintenance of railway lines, including high-speed rail projects. CPB Contractors is a major Australian construction company. They have extensive experience in delivering complex infrastructure projects, including railway infrastructure. UGL is an Australian engineering and construction company with a strong focus on rail services, including asset management and maintenance. SMEC, a global engineering consultancy, offers comprehensive services in the rail sector, from design to construction supervision. WSP is a professional services company with a global presence and expertise in engineering, design, and consulting for the transportation sector, including railway infrastructure.