Monday 7 March 2022

1998: Sydney CBD-Parramatta Fast Train Proposal

In 1998, Lend Lease proposed to build a fast train line that would have enabled commuters to travel from the Sydney CBD to Parramatta in only 12 minutes. This would be nearly 50 % faster than the proposed Western Sydney metro connecting the two centres or would shave at least fifteen minutes off a standard rail trip. It also proposed that the line would also go through to Penrith. For those commuting from Penrith to Sydney, travel time would be reduced by two thirds to just 22 minutes. 

In addition, it was planned that either a light rail line or monorail line would link Parramatta with Castle Hill in just ten minutes.

Sydney CBD - Parramatta VFT March 5 1998 SMH 4 

Source: Humphries, D. & Doherty, L. "City to Parramatta in 10 minutes: transport for a fast track future". The Sydney Morning Herald, March 5: 4. 

While it did not eventuate, the issue of fast rail has lasted through to the present day. Note that there is a possible option of connecting the Western Sydney Airport with Parramatta and the Sydney CBD. It is not off the table altogether.

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