North West Rail Link tunnel boring machines (TBM) will be in the ground from the end of October this year, officials have said.
The first TBM will be ready to begin tunnelling works on the $8.3 billion project ahead of schedule, according to NSW Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian.
A joint venture of Thiess, John Holland and Dragados (TJHD) was awarded a $1.15 billion contract last year to construct 15 kilometres of twin-bored tunnels and excavate five underground stations.
O’Farrell said: “I am pleased to announce we will deliver on our commitment to get the tunnel boring machine in the ground ahead of schedule. Instead of the end of year, the first tunnel boring machine will be in operation here at Bella Vista by October, after a detailed assembly process on site.
“We’re getting on with the job of building the biggest public transport project in the country and a critical piece of infrastructure that will change the way of life for the people of Sydney’s North West.
“The $8.3 billion North West Rail Link is on budget and moving forward rapidly.”
A further three TBMs will follow delivery of the first in October.
