First train on the tracks as Thornlie-Cockburn Link reaches milestone

Perth's first east-west line connection, the Thornlie-Cockburn Link, and the Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal project have reached a major milestone, with the first test train running today.

The milestone marks the start of an extensive testing and commissioning program, which will ensure all infrastructure and systems are operating effectively and trains are running safely, efficiently, and smoothly.

The 17.5-kilometre Thornlie-Cockburn Link project includes two new stations, at Nicholson Road and Ranford Rd, and upgrades to the Thornlie and Cockburn Central stations.

Connecting the Mandurah and Armadale lines through the Thornlie-Cockburn Link will support growth and accessibility across the south-eastern suburbs by providing access to employment, unlock long-term housing development opportunities in Canning Vale, and provide a direct line for Mandurah Line passengers to Perth Stadium Station for the first time.

When passenger services commence later this year, commuters will have a 27-minute journey to Perth from Nicholson Rd Station and a 31-minute journey from Ranford Rd Station, as well as some of the most affordable public transport anywhere in the country.

Meanwhile, construction on the new elevated Armadale Line continues to surge ahead, with works well-progressed on all seven new stations and delivery of the new seven-kilometre-long linear park underneath the elevated rail underway.

'Long Park' will provide six hectares of new public open space for the community and help facilitate new urban housing opportunities along the corridor.