Southbank jobs boost

Southbank Tram Depot is set for a multi-million dollar upgrade, to ensure the tram network is prepared for 50 new low-floor trams that have been ordered by the State Government.

In a boost for the local economy, the upgrade will create 50 construction jobs, and another 15 Yarra Trams staff will need to be employed full-time for maintenance and engineering of the new trams.

The $24.4 million upgrade is set to target the expansion and improvement of the workshop area, installation of an underfloor wheel lathe used to carry out wheel maintenance and the installation of an additional maintenance pit.

It’s not just the maintenance of the trams that will be looked after with a 60,000 litre underground water tank also being installed, to capture stormwater. The water will then be used in a new tram wash facility.

The new trams are to be built in Dandenong, and the Premier Ted Baillieu says they will be better than existing trams.

“The new trams will each be able to carry more than 200 passengers and will improve accessibility for passengers,” Mr Baillieu said.

“The new trams will have a low floor to provide easier access at tram stops, slip-resistant floors and air-conditioning to improve passenger comfort and safety.”

The Minister for Transport Terry Mulder says it is important that the government invest and maintain Melbourne’s tram network, to ensure it remains a world leader.

“Melbourne’s tram network is the world’s largest, with about 182 million passenger trips now made on our trams each year. “We are committed to upgrading both the network and trams to improve accessibility,” Mr Mulder said.

“The Coalition Government is focused on getting the basics of our public transport network right, which is why we’re investing $800 million in tram network improvements.”

The upgrade of the site is to be completed by Leighton Contractors and with work already underway Mr Mulder said the depot works should be completed by the time the first of the new low-floor trams are added to the network late next year.