Another big step for Butler rail project

• State Government awards signalling contract worth almost $20m

• Train services to Butler on track to start in late 2014

The $240million State Government project which is extending Perth's urban railway network north to Butler, has taken a big step forward with the signing of a major signalling contract.

Transport Minister Troy Buswell said today that the Perth office of Ansaldo STS Australia last week signed the $19.7million contract with the Public Transport Authority, and work would start almost immediately.

"The contract covers the detailed design and construction of the railway signalling system for the $240million Butler Extension Project," Mr Buswell said.

"The signalling system will enable the safe and efficient operation of the railway by keeping a safe separation between trains; monitoring route integrity; and supervising train braking and speed limits.

"The work will be undertaken between the existing Clarkson Station and the new Butler Station on the Joondalup Line and also involves signalling at the entry to the Mandurah Railcar Depot.

"Factory assembly and testing works will take place at the contractor's Canning Vale premises and expected to be completed in time for Butler services to start in late 2014."

      Fact File

• State Govt has invested $243m in 66 new railcars, increasing fleet by 28% to 300 cars

• Invested more than $240m to extend northern rail line to Butler

• Scheduled for completion by end of 2014

• By end of 2012, more than 4,500 new car parking bays delivered at city stations

• More information at: http://www.pta.wa.gov.au/Projects/ButlerExtensionProject/tabid/245/Default.aspx 

Minister's office - 6552 6400