Smart new platform for Sunnyvale train station
From Monday 4 December passengers using Sunnyvale train station will have a smart new platform to catch the train out West or towards Britomart as Auckland’s Western Line rail upgrade progresses further.
The new platform, located just opposite the existing platform, can be accessed from Seymour Road via a temporary footpath. The existing platform will be closed for upgrading and the addition of a new track to allow trains to service it.
Auckland Regional Transport Authority’s (ARTA) General Manager Infrastructure and Rail, Elena Trout says, “The new platform gives passengers a much more comfortable waiting environment, with good shelter, seating, customer information and lighting.
“The platform has been created as part of the Western Line upgrade project run in partnership by rail network provider ONTRACK (who are building a second track and upgrading signalling) and ARTA (who are upgrading the stations) with project support from Waitakere City Council.”
The Western line double tracking project is part of ONTRACK’s $600 million Project DART, a three year programme of improvements to Auckland’s rail infrastructure. It includes redevelopment of Newmarket station and junction, improved linking of Manukau City to the rail network, and network wide signalling improvements to allow more frequent services.
Ms Trout says, “Passengers should allow more time for their journey to the station while they get used to the new access arrangements and are reminded not to cross the tracks.”
The public is also asked, for their own safety, to stay out of construction areas.
Ms Trout says that the new, modern facilities at Sunnyvale station will improve the passenger’s travel experience, “Such enhancements are being steadily introduced across the region’s public transport network. People are already switching on to the benefits and we have seen very strong growth in rail patronage over the last year.”