The new and improved Redfern Station has officially opened, providing major accessibility upgrades for one of Sydney’s oldest and busiest railway stations.
As part of the NSW Government’s Transport Access Program, the inner-city station has been transformed to improve safety and convenience for people with a disability or limited mobility, and passengers travelling with prams, luggage or bikes.
The upgraded station features a new southern concourse with six new lifts and stair access to Platforms 1 to 10, as well as two additional entrances, drop-off areas, accessible toilets, and improved streetscaping.
The location of the pedestrian bridge provides easier access to arts and employment precincts like Carriageworks and South Eveleigh.
In response to a community campaign, the new concourse also provides barrier-free access so people can move freely between Little Eveleigh and Marian Streets.
Transport for NSW engaged heritage architects and Aboriginal community members to ensure the upgrade reflected the station and surrounding area’s unique and rich cultural heritage.
This project was delivered under the Transport Access Program, which saw a funding boost of $300m in the most recent budget, ensuring more communities across NSW will soon have access to safe and accessible public transport options.
Chris Minns, Premier of NSW said:
“Given its close proximity to education, health, employment and cultural precincts, we know how important Redfern Station is for people accessing local services and attractions, so it’s great to see these accessibility upgrades completed.
“I am pleased to mark the completion of this project, which will benefit so many rail commuters and visitors travelling on our states rail network.
Jo Haylen, Minister for Transport, said:
“Redfern Train Station is the fifth busiest train station in the state, but for the 140 years it’s been serving passengers it hasn’t been accessible.
“That changes today as this much-needed upgrade opens, breathing new life into this beautiful old station and ensuring it has better capacity and accessibility into the future.
“The upgrade of this station was years in the making, with people advocating for this project for decades. I want to thank the more than four thousand workers who contributed to this project, as well as the community for their patience during construction.
“Now with an additional $300m in the budget for further station accessibility upgrades, I look forward to seeing even more communities across NSW making the most of these vital station upgrades.”
Kate Washington, Minister for Disability inclusion, said:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to making our communities more inclusive and accessible for all.”
“These six brand new lifts at one of our State’s busiest train stations will open up new opportunities for people with disability, parents with prams, and anyone with mobility issues.”
“This vital upgrade at Redfern Train Station means more people can get around our city easily and safely.”