Presented by Robert Clark MP		www.robertclark.net

Tram extension into Docklands

A major extension to Melbourne’s tram network is to be built by June next year in Melbourne’s Docklands.

The new tracks will run along Flinders Street west of Spencer Street, along Footscray Road to Victoria Harbor, and back across the new Latrobe Street Bridge.

There will be seven tram stops along the loop, with the provision for more in the future.

The total cost will be $17.3 million, with the State Government funding $1 million, and the balance provided by Dockland developers.

When Colonial Stadium opens in February next year, Yarra Trams will initially provide access to the stadium via the extension of LaTrobe Street, across the LaTrobe Street Bridge to an interim terminus at Victoria Harbor.

From June next year route 48 (North Balwyn/City) will be extended to service the Docklands by a continuing from Flinders Street along the new track and then back into the CBD along LaTrobe Street as far as the terminus in Victoria Parade, East Melbourne.

When the whole tram extension is completed, passengers will access trams going to Flinders Street as well as trams travelling up LaTrobe Street to access Flagstaff and Melbourne Central Stations, as well as all the tram services of William, Elizabeth, Swanston, Nicholson and Brunswick Streets.

There will be extra tram shuttles operating to and from Colonial Stadium during major events.

It is estimated that between 11% and 16% of the anticipated weekly 52,000 Colonial Stadium patrons will use trams, with the rest of patrons having easy access to bus and train services at Spencer Street Station.

(News Release, Office of the Minister for Transport, May 20, 1999)