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Forrestfield-Airport Link project has reached a major milestone with the approval from the Western Australian Planning Commission for early works on the infrastructure project.

In late April, the joint venture formed by infrastructure group Salini Impregilo and NRW was awarded the contract to design, build, finance, operate and maintain de train line project.

The Early Works include set up of the main construction facilities and storage for the tunnel lining segments, slurry treatment plant and other plant required to operate the tunnel boring machines, spoil handling facilities, site offices, warehouse and storage areas.

The project, which holds an estimated investment of AUD2 billion (US$1.5 billion), will connect Forrestfield to the city with a new train line. It will open up the eastern suburbs to the rail network for the first time and give Perth airport users a five-minute faster option than by car. Connecting with the existing Midland line near Bayswater Station, the majority of the rail link will be tunnelled underground to ensure minimal impact on the existing land and road network.

The project aims to  provide a quick and efficient connection between Forrestfield and the city, and to promote connections onward to tourism centres, such as Fremantle. It also aims to reduce car dependency and relieve traffic congestion, therefore improving productivity and the available capacity of the road network.