Joanna James
Sydney’s transport network has been significantly upgraded with the Sydney Metro extension now traversing the CBD. The expansion includes six state-of-the-art stations (one featuring a new dining precinct) and a fleet of 45 driverless trains. Here’s all you need to know about the high-speed Sydney Metro!
The Sydney Metro is an advanced transit system currently under construction beneath the city. With high-speed driverless trains, it is set to greatly enhance travel convenience and efficiency for Sydneysiders. The metro will pass under the harbour, transporting passengers from North Sydney’s new Victoria Cross Station to Barangaroo in only three minutes. Key stops along the line also include Castle Hill, Macquarie University, and a major transit hub at Martin Place in the CBD.
The initial phase of Sydney Metro, called Sydney Metro Northwest, began operation in May 2019, offering high-speed train service from Chatswood to Tallawong Station in Rouse Hill. The newest extension, the Sydney Metro City line, running from Chatswood to Sydenham, officially launched on Monday, August 19.
Metro journey times include 35 minutes from Castle Hill to Martin Place, 26 minutes from Macquarie University to Central, and 13 minutes from Chatswood to Gadigal. The trip from North Sydney's Victoria Cross to Barangaroo, passing under the harbour, takes just 3 minutes, while Central to Martin Place takes 4 minutes, Central to Sydenham 7 minutes, and Sydenham to Chatswood 22 minutes.
On weekdays, trains arrive every four minutes during peak hours, every five minutes between peak times, and every ten minutes during off-peak periods. Although 24-hour service is not offered, Sydney City metro trains now run past midnight each night except Sunday, making it convenient for late-night partygoers and tourists staying at a hotel in Parramatta the likes of PARKROYAL Parramatta, to experience the city’s popular dance venues and dining spots before returning home swiftly.
The Sydney Metro City line presently runs from Chatswood to Sydenham, passing through the city and beneath the harbour, with newly added stations at Crows Nest, Victoria Cross, Barangaroo, Martin Place, Pitt Street, Waterloo, and new underground platforms at Central. Once the City and Southwest line is finalised, the Bankstown to Sydenham train line will shut down for a year to facilitate conversion work.
In major news for Sydney’s western suburbs, the government has confirmed that Sydney Metro West will proceed after years of uncertainty. Although the completion is expected by 2032, it promises significant changes for the city. Sydney Metro West will connect the Sydney CBD to the emerging city centre near the new airport, with plans to develop more affordable housing along the route for the benefit of the populace.
Sydney Metro is the first fully automated rapid transit system in Australia, aligning with major global metro networks in cities like Singapore, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. With its cutting-edge technology, including driverless trains and a robust safety infrastructure, Sydney Metro aims to set a new standard for public transport in Australia. The system prioritises sustainability as well, using energy-efficient designs and aiming to reduce road congestion. With this ambitious project, Sydney positions itself among cities known for high-tech, efficient, and eco-friendly transit solutions, making it a standout example of modern urban planning.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
