New upgrades to Redfern Station opened, improving commuter accessibility

The long-awaited upgrades to Redfern Station has finally opened to the public over the weekend, providing a new concourse to help reduce platform crowding and improve commuter accessibility.

On Sunday, October 8, the $166 million project was unveiled. Connecting Little Eveleigh and Marian Streets, the 90-metre concourse stretches across the 10 railway tracks and provides elevator access to each of the station’s platforms.

The upgrades were apart of the NSW Government’s Transport Access Program, aiming to help provide platform accessibility for people with disability or limited mobility, as well as assisting passengers with large luggage, bikes or prams.

Addressing demand

Redfern station is the fifth busiest station in the state, seeing an average of 46,000 passengers each weekday. It is also one of the oldest stations in NSW, opening in 1878 and operating for the past 140 years.

Unveiling the new concourse, Premier Chris Minns explained the significance of the upgrade connecting the Redfern area, and anticipating the rapid growth from community development.

“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,” said Minns.

“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,” he continued.

Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen, said the changes “breathe new life” into the station and will better address the commuter demand.

“The upgrade of this station was years in the making, with people advocating for this project for decades,” said Haylen. She continued to thank workers and community supporters.

“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,” Haylen continued.

Delayed Opening

The upgrade has been anticipated ever since construction began in 2019. Whilst initially slated to open in 2020, delays also caused the project to also go over budget by $66 million.

The additional six lifts to each of the Redfern platforms have been long-awaited, with the station installing one lift in 2015, which was only accessible on Platforms 6/7.

Lift instalments has been a major aspect to the Transport Access Program. Many Inner West stations have recently seen them installed, with two lifts now operating at Stanmore Station, and Dulwich Hill Station expecting lift access next month.

The Redfern Train Station concourse and lifts are now available to for public use.