Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun has renewed calls to extend the metro service from Bankstown to Liverpool after it was absent from leaked Transport for NSW's future plans.
Despite being included in previous NSW Government future transport strategies, the line was significantly absent from the department's latest rail plans leaked on Thursday.
Mayor Mannoun expressed frustration at the revelation and called upon the NSW Government to confirm the reports, saying he hoped the line has not been excluded from future rail transport planning.
"The need for fast, reliable transport in Southwest Sydney has never been more urgent. It is essential that infrastructure keeps pace with the rapid growth in our region."
"This extension would significantly improve public transport access between Liverpool and Sydney, giving our residents more time to be with their families and in their communities", Mayor Mannoun said.
"Removing this much-needed investment in Southwest Sydney from future planning, without any engagement with Council or the community, will only keep our communities at a perpetual transport disadvantage," said Mayor Mannoun.
Improving connectivity in Southwest Sydney is key to unlocking the region's full housing potential. Council estimates indicate the line could support up to 38,000 additional homes based on existing planning controls.
The Liverpool extension could provide even further opportunities for housing. Extending the line west of the Liverpool CBD through Miller and Ashcroft could yield up to 55,000 homes, servicing a population of over 140,000 as well as providing over 20,000 jobs.
"Deleting this project before it's even started is a missed opportunity from the NSW Government" Mayor Mannoun said.
With the T3 Metro's completion nearing, extending this line to Liverpool is a must. Council is seeking an urgent meeting with the NSW Transport Minister to address the issue.
