The first trains carrying containers will arrive at the Moorebank intermodal in two years from now.
This was the reaction from those behind the intermodal plan after getting the green light for stage one work.
They say construction work will start early in 2017 on the controversial project, which is opposed by many local residents.
The stage one approval on December 14 paves the way for construction of:
import/export (IMEX) intermodal terminal;
rail link connecting the Moorebank site to Port Botany via the Southern Sydney Freight Line;
rail sidings;
container storage areas;
administration building;
signage and landscaping.
Qube Holdings, through its ownership of the Sydney Intermodal Terminal Alliance (SIMTA), will develop, manage and operate the precinct under a 99-year lease and agreement with the Moorebank Intermodal Company (MIC) – a Commonwealth business enterprise.
Qube now says it expects to reach financial close with MIC in the near future.
Development director for the Moorebank project Michael Yiend says that based on the current construction timetable, the first train carrying freight containers from Port Botany is due to arrive at the Moorebank facility in late 2018.
“Years of planning and consultation have gone in to this so it’s very satisfying to now get started to turn this nationally significant project from a vision into reality,” Mr Yiend said.
“I think the significance of this facility and the wide range of benefits it will deliver is still not fully understood.
“Aside from taking thousands of truck trips off Sydney’s roads every day, Moorebank will showcase the future of automated freight logistics, reduce emissions, create around 7,000 jobs and simplify the way imported goods are transported, which will result in savings to businesses and consumers.
“It is a project that will generate economic benefits for decades to come,” he said.
Mr Yiend said Qube will continue to work closely with Liverpool and Campbelltown councils, peak business bodies and the community to ensure those benefits are maximised in the local region.
The Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Precinct will be delivered in a number of development stages over the next 5 to 10 years to mirror growth in freight demand.
Three further development applications – an interstate terminal, the first 300,000 square metre tranche of warehousing and a freight village – are currently on exhibition with NSW Planning for community feedback, review and assessment.
