Progress towards Melbourne’s suburban rail loop (SRL) is rolling ahead as the shortlist is announced for firms that will build the massive project.
Three global industry leaders have been shortlisted for the tunnelling contracts for what is being called a ‘city-shaping’ project in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
The three shortlisters are:
- CPB Contractors, Ghella and Acciona Construction Australia: These companies bring with them a wealth of experience in tunnelling and transport infrastructure. Past projects include Brisbane’s Cross River Rail, Sydney Metro and the Caulfield to Dandenong level crossing removal.
- John Holland and Gamuda (Australia) Branch: With extensive experience, these have been responsible for a number of projects in Melbourne – Melbourne’s metro tunnel and city loop – as well as abroad.
- Webuild and GS Engineering and Construction Australia: Well known globally, these have worked on the North East Link tunnels, as well as projects in Asia and the Middle East.
SRL CEO Frankie Carroll was encouraged by the interest in the project.
“This competitive process has been a massive vote of confidence in Suburban Rail Loop – with construction giants from around the world vying to partner with us to deliver this city-shaping project,” said Carroll.
With the shortlist announced, the project is well on track with the first contract to be awarded next year for twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley.
Initial works on SRL have already begun in Clayton and major works have been given the green light due to an extensive Environmental Effects Statement.
Jacinta Allan, the Minister for Suburban Rail Loop spoke of the project creating up to 8000 local jobs, creating opportunities for professional growth.
“SRL East is a project Victoria needs, and we’re getting on with delivering this city-shaping network and the many thousands of jobs during construction – this is an exciting day as we move closer to the start of tunnelling,” said Allan.
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