Western research backs Parramatta Light Rail green track

Western Sydney University research has confirmed the viability of green track in western Sydney, in a study commissioned by Transport for NSW for the Parramatta Light Rail project.

Taking inspiration from global cities, the NSW Government will deliver Australia’s longest stretch of “green track” as part of the Parramatta Light Rail project.

Parramatta Light Rail will feature up to one kilometre of green track, which involves planting grass or shrubs between and beside light rail tracks instead of asphalt or concrete, across three zones: Cumberland Hospital, Robin Thomas Reserve and Tramway Avenue.

According to Lead Researcher Dr Sebastian Pfautsch, Research Theme Fellow – Environment and Sustainability at Western Sydney University, the project demonstrates how responsible urban design can both enhance local mobility and environmental sustainability.

“Our research confirms that green track will perform important environmental functions that improve the amenity and ecology of the local area. These benefits are particularly interesting for a city like Parramatta, where summer heat and more general heat island effects are of concern for public health and integrity of infrastructure,” Dr Pfautsch said.

Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 will connect Westmead to Carlingford via Parramatta CBD and Camellia. For more on the  project, visit the Parramatta Light Rail website (opens in a new window).

Visit the Western Sydney University document repository (opens in a new window) to download the ‘Green Track for Parramatta Light Rail’ report.

ENDS

15 May 2019

Ali Sardyga, Media Officer