Heritage works to continue on Claremont Station project
A one-of-a-kind series of heritage restoration works is about to begin at Claremont Station, with specialist contractors mobilising to repair the 135-year-old grand dame of the rail network.
Since Claremont Station was temporarily closed on April 6, the project team has been peeling back the layers of the heritage station in order to stabilise and restore the facility and its associated outbuildings.
This gradual unearthing of previously-hidden elements, including the station building’s canopy, floor joists and supporting posts, has revealed a number of rotted and damaged components which require replacement.
Due to the complexity and delicacy of these specialist works, Claremont Station is not expected to reopen until June.
Works on the customer service assistant office and stairs are expected to continue over the next few months.
“These heritage works are so important to the history of our oldest train station, and they need to be done properly,” Public Transport Authority spokesman David Hynes said.
“The specialisation required to comply with the heritage covenants that exist to protect this building are significant.
“The intricacy of these works is quite incredible. For example, the material required to re-create the canopy posts – all of which are unique and must be shaped using hand tools only – is not easy to source.
“We have retained one of the few artisans in Western Australia able to complete these works. However, as a sole operator and skilled tradesman, he requires time to obtain and fashion the timber.
“This is just one element in a series of bespoke heritage works and trades that must be sourced for the project.
“Fabrication and installation of these important traditional components cannot be rushed, which is why we have decided to extend the works period and the associated closure of Claremont Station.”
While Claremont remains closed, school students will have access to a shuttle bus (Route 700S) which will operate between Showgrounds and Swanbourne, stopping at Claremont Station. The service will run from 7.30am to 8.30am and 3.15pm to 4.15pm on school days.
The METRONET Claremont Station Project is installing turnback infrastructure and new overhead lines, which will allow for an increase in the frequency of Fremantle Line services between Claremont and the CBD during peak times, boost network resilience during unplanned service disruptions, and facilitate direct access to the new Airport Line from Claremont Station.
Passengers who may be impacted by the extended closure are urged to visit the Transperth website, sign up for My Alerts, download the Transperth app or call the Transperth InfoLine on 13 62 13 for more information.
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