Today the NSW Premier and the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure announced the nine kilometre preferred route for Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2. This will connect to Stage 1 and run north of the Parramatta River through the rapidly developing suburbs of Ermington, Melrose Park and Wentworth Point to Sydney Olympic Park, helping to connect people to this booming sport, entertainment and employment hub.

This route is the best option as it achieves a fully integrated transport and land use plan for Greater Parramatta and the Olympic Peninsula, and connects directly with fast rail and future metro services to the Sydney CBD. Stage 2 will be further developed by consultation with the community and stakeholders. A Final Business Case for Stage 2 is expected to be completed in 2018, with an investment decision and details on the timing of construction to follow.

The Environmental Impact Statement for Stage 1 of the project is on exhibition until 23 October. Expressions of Interest have been called to design and construct, supply, operate and maintain the network and light rail vehicles. Construction on Stage 1 is expected to start in 2018, pending planning approval, with light rail to begin operating in 2023.

More information about Parramatta Light Rail, including the preferred route for Stage 2, is available on the project website.

Announcement courtesy of Transport for NSW