Sydney to operate ‘world’s longest trams’

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Sydney’s planned CBD and South East Light Rail will have the world’s longest trams after the state government confirmed plans to increase the system’s capacity by 50 per cent.

The NSW Government has presented several improvements to the planned network, including running two 33-metre trams coupled together, technically making them longer than the 54-metre Siemens-built Combino Plus trams in operation in Budapest.

As well as longer trams, proposals include extending the length of the line under catenary-free operation and using a less disruptive construction method for the tunnel under Anzac Parade through to Moore Park.

The proposed changes have been developed with the Connecting Sydney consortium, which includes Transdev Sydney, Alstom Transport Australia, Acciona Infrastructure Australia and Capella Capital., which was announced as the preferred bidder for the project in October.

Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said: “The proposal offers services that from day one carry up to 15 per cent more light rail passengers in peak hours, and 33 per cent more seats across the day.

“This is great news for transport customers and will ensure the new light rail network can support Sydney’s growing economy and population for decades to come.”

She added: “As announced in October this year, the wins for customers proposed under the improved project design will mean an increase in the overall budget of the project. The NSW Government is working with the Connecting Sydney consortium to finalise this major contract over the coming weeks.”

Construction of the CBD and South East Light Rail will start after Anzac Day (April 25) next year and is due to carry its first passengers between 2019/20.

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