Action for Public Transport (N.S.W.) Inc.

We had prepared a list of some 60 items covering the design and operation of the trains, stations and surrounding precincts. These were drawn from suggestions by APTNSW members and from internet-based transport discussion boards. Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is currently evaluating competitive submissions from two prospective operators of the fully automated, segregated railway. The successful consortium will design the trains and stations, supply the trains, and operate and maintain both the trains and the stations. Generally speaking, TfNSW has specified minimum standards for train timetables and passenger facilities on the trains and stations, for which TfNSW will pay the operator for providing the service.

We are pleased to report that the railway will incorporate modern communications systems. Staff will be familiar not only with train running information but also that of the wider Sydney Trains network and the precincts surrounding the stations. Trains will have on-board electronic route map displays (much of the railway is in tunnel), and the railway has been designed to allow people to access the system as independently as possible. Like the rest of the Sydney train network, bicycles will be permitted on the trains.

Many of the topics we had wished to discuss are still subject to negotiation with the bidders, so we were unable to get firm answers. We will follow up with TfNSW in an attempt to ensure all parties understand the needs and priorities of the users of the new railway.