On Sat, 31st May, I had the kind opportunity to interact with Ms. Donna Davis MP, State Member for Parramatta. I handed over a letter detailing why the light rail should be extended by 4 kms from Carlingford to Epping Metro Station. 

In short, I argued - would it difficult? Possibly. But would it be worth it? Absolutely! Where there is a will, there is a way.

Ms. Donna Davis MP

State Member for Parramatta

31-May-2025

Subject: Extend the Parramatta Light Rail by 4 kms to Epping Metro Station

Dear Ms. Davis,

Hope you are well.

I request your urgent attention to a pressing issue that directly aligns with our shared commitment to building a better Parramatta for all.

Despite the vast Sydney Train network, there is no direct rail connection between North Sydney and Western Sydney. Hence, I urge the New South Wales Government to extend the Parramatta Light Rail by 4 kms from Carlingford to Epping metro station and bridge this "Uncrossable Zone” with a direct rail link. This extension will significantly enhance Westen Sydney's public transport network, providing numerous benefits to our community.

I understand the government is already building the Sydney Metro West. However, it will not be until 2036, a good 10 years away, when we will see the first metro carry passengers. With the Rosehill Gardens sale not going through, it has only thrown a spanner in the prospective wheel of the Sydney Metro West.

Sydney Trains outages, last witnessed as recently on 20th and 21st May, was neither the first nor the last. While I am certain the government will do all in their power to ensure reliable service, what is needed most are public transport options. A good transport system is not only reliant but resilient to withstand most scenarios. If the Parramatta Light Rail connected with the Epping Metro Station - just 4 kms away - it would have significantly benefit commuters between Western Sydney and the Sydney CBD. This link would have streamlined travel, allowing passengers to efficiently transition between the Metro and Light Rail to reach their destinations.

With an extension, we would solve an issue that is currently plaguing the Light Rail – a low uptake of passengers turning it into a white elephant; something which neither the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 nor the rezoning of Talopea and Ngara will solve I am afraid.

Greater Western Sydney is the third largest economy in the country and expected to create about 170,000 new jobs by 2030. With the Sydney Metro West not being ready by then, an extension to the Light Rail by 4 kms, though costly upfront, would be much quicker and hugely beneficial than any other means as described in the proposed ‘Future Transport 2056’ strategy.

I have put together a few points for your perusal -  

Benefits of the Extension

o   Enhanced Connectivity: A direct link between the Northern and Western rail lines will streamline travel across these major corridors, making places like Epping, Chatswood, Macquarie University and Parramatta easily accessible.

o   Increased Resilience: Providing an alternative route will mitigate disruptions caused by industrial actions or service interruptions on the existing train network.

o   Support for Population Growth: The areas between Carlingford and Epping are experiencing significant residential and commercial development, necessitating efficient public transport solutions.

o   Environmental Benefits: Encouraging public transport use over private vehicles will reduce traffic congestion and lower emissions, contributing to a healthier environment.

o   Economic Development and Job Creation: Improved transport links can stimulate local economies by attracting businesses and creating job opportunities. For instance, the Parramatta North rezoning plan is expected to create 12,000 high-value jobs along the new light rail line.

 
Case against Potential Disadvantages

o   High Capital Costs: While initial investments are substantial, the long-term benefits, including economic growth and environmental improvements, justify the expenditure.

o   Environmental and Community Impact: Modern construction practices can minimize disruptions, and community engagement can address local concerns effectively.

o   Alternative Route Considerations: Extending to Epping leverages existing infrastructure and provides a direct link between key rail lines, enhancing network efficiency.

o   Operational Challenges: With effective planning and coordination, integration with existing transport services can be achieved seamlessly.

o   Demand Uncertainty: Proactive infrastructure development can accommodate future needs and encourage public transit use, especially in growing areas.

I have also started a petition on Change.org in this regard which has received 255 signatures from the community. You may find the petition here - 

[Petition QR code]

Below are some comments from the signatories

When the heavy rail link from Epping to Parramatta was abandoned, this was very sad. Stopping the light rail at Carlingford was a short-sighted decision. Please fix this incomplete infrastructure – Cheryl

And a stop at Carlingford Court too. Also, why couldn't it connect to the North West Metro opening up opportunities such as at North Rocks, West Pennant Hill Valley – Beverly

Hence, I earnestly request you and the NSW Government to extend the Parramatta Light Rail to Epping Metro Station. This initiative will ensure easier commute and address the transport needs of our growing population in Parramatta and Western Sydney.

Yours sincerely,

Nelton D'Souza

I request you to share this petition with everyone you know - transport enthusiasts, fellow commuters, friends and family, etc. Let us make the right noise and build a better, cleaner, reliable and resilient public transport system - for Western Sydney and for all of us!