Tunnelling on Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East is a big step closer, with major works contractor Terra Verde now on site and final preparations underway for the start of tunnelling next year.
A giant launch site is nearing completion for 2 tunnel boring machines (TBMs), which will head south and dig the SRL East twin tunnels between Burwood and Glen Waverley.
Contractor Laing O’Rourke recently completed site preparation works, which included construction of the TBM launch site and moving underground services to make way for the twin tunnels and new underground station.
The site has now been handed to Tunnels North contractor Terra Verde which is building the northern section of the SRL East tunnels, and will now complete final preparations for tunnelling to start next year, including construction of acoustic sheds to reduce the impact on local residents.
Two TBMs will launch from Burwood towards Glen Waverley in 2026, while 2 more will launch towards Box Hill at a later date. The machines are currently under construction and will start arriving on site in coming months. Terra Verde will also build the box for the new underground station at the site.
The future SRL station at Burwood will bring a train connection to Deakin University for the first time, making it faster and easier for tens of thousands of staff and students to get to campus every day.
The new underground station will be at the heart of a vibrant community, bringing more homes and jobs close to the new rail line. As Australia’s largest housing project, SRL will help deliver 70,000 additional homes to the areas around the 6 SRL East stations – right where people want to live, within walking distance of world-class public transport.
Construction of SRL East between Cheltenham and Box Hill is powering ahead, creating up to 8000 direct local jobs, with more than 3000 people already working on the project. Trains will be taking passengers in 2035.