It’s coming. How light rail will swing into City West when the project is completed in 2028. Image: ACT Government.
Construction of the next stage of light rail will start on 5 February, with site works setting up on London Circuit and traffic closures beginning.
Infrastructure Canberra said that from 5 February, the entire western side of London Circuit would close to regular traffic, with the exception of some movement from West Row, through London Circuit, to Knowles Place onto Edinburgh Avenue.
The start of the 1.7 km Light Rail Stage 2A extension to Commonwealth Park via City West coincides with the Raising London Circuit enabling project entering its final stages.
Infrastructure Canberra said that as works were completed across the alignment, sections of London Circuit would be re-opened to support and maintain local access through the area.
It said people would still be able to reach businesses along London Circuit, and signs would help customers, visitors and residents navigate the area.
Electronic Variable Message Signage would also be in place around the city to alert approaching drivers to the closures.
A continuously updated online construction impacts map will provide current information about road changes and other impacts from the construction of light rail and the Raising London Circuit project.
Start of construction – light rail stage 2A, from the City to Commonwealth Park. Image: ACT Government.
During February the following changes can be expected:
- the closure of London Circuit west, between Northbourne and Edinburgh Avenues to motorists and on-road cyclists, with fencing installed and in place until late 2027
- some changes to pedestrian pathways around London Circuit West and Northbourne Avenue
- lane closures on Commonwealth Avenue between Parkes Way Bridge and Commonwealth Bridge
- relocation of the bus stop on Commonwealth Avenue northbound (opposite Regatta Point)
- the removal of some trees on London Circuit west and Commonwealth Avenue
- the removal of street assets on London Circuit in readiness for construction, including bike racks, water fountains, park benches, light poles and public art
- utilities in the ground starting to be removed and relocated
- site establishment activities under Parkes Way bridge to prepare for the new rail bridge over Parkes Way
- construction activity along King Edward Terrace to prepare for the upgrading of underground services.
The ACT Government is partnering with the Federal Government and Canberra Metro to deliver Stage 2A.
The project will include three new stops at Edinburgh Avenue, City South and Commonwealth Park, and light rail vehicles will run wire-free.
It is expected to be completed and take its first passengers in 2028. By then the government hopes to start work on the Stage 2B across Lake Burley Griffin to Woden,
Workers, residents and visitors to the city centre will be able to take light rail to destinations in City West and the southern approaches – the ANU, New Acton, Commonwealth Park and the lake, including the Acton Waterfront.
The government says the project will transform the southern end of the city, making it easily accessible for residents, tourists, commuters and businesses.
On Monday (20 January), Capital Property Group announced plans for a six-building, mixed-use precinct on an almost 2 ha block that will address the new corner of London Circuit and Commonwealth Avenue.
It will also develop an office precinct at the other end of London Circuit at the corner with Northbourne Avenue, bookending the western section of the road.
Loading ...
