Signalling system works on the Shorncliffe Line

From July 2020, Hitachi Rail will be working within the rail corridor along the Shorncliffe Line in preparation for the delivery of a new world-class train signalling system as part of the Cross River Rail Project.

 

The introduction of the European Train Control System (ETCS) will revolutionise Brisbane’s inner-city rail network.

Already operating in cities and towns around the world, the well-proven signalling system will allow more trains to run more often. It will increase capacity and enhance safety on the rail network and facilitate the operation of trains in the Cross River Rail tunnels.

ETCS will be rolled out in several stages starting with the Shorncliffe Line where work has already commenced and is expected to be operational in 2022. The project will involve ETCS equipment and technology being fitted to trains, on and alongside rail tracks, and within Queensland Rail’s Rail Management Centre followed by operational testing.

The majority of work will be completed, and infrastructure installed within the rail corridor and on Queensland Rail property which will minimise impact on the visual landscape, the community and the natural environment.

Every effort will be taken to ensure all work is carried out safely and managed to minimise disruption to commuters and surrounding residents and businesses. All activities will be undertaken in accordance with relevant regulations.
 

Details of work

Work on the Shorncliffe Line will be undertaken intermittently until late 2022. Work scheduled to occur between Shorncliffe and Nudgee stations in July and August 2020 will include:

  • Installing new cable routes or repairing existing cable routes
  • Laying foundations and installing signalling equipment, and equipment housing (e.g. cabinets).

Construction will occur Monday to Friday, 7.00am to 5.00pm with selected weekend and regular night work scheduled as per the below table, weather permitting. Further notification will be provided as work progresses near your property.
 

Night and weekend work between Shorncliffe and Nudgee stations July

July

  • Weekday night work:
    • Between 8.00pm and 4.30am: 5 – 9 July.
    • Between 8.00pm and 4.30am: 12 – 16 July, 19 – 23 July, 26 – 30 July.
  • Weekend work:
    • Between 6.00am – 5.00pm:11 and 12 July.
August

  • Weekday night work:
    • Between 8.00pm and 4.30am: 10 – 13 August, 16 – 20 August, 31 August – 3 September.
    • Between 8.00pm and 4.30am: 2 – 6 August, 23 – 27 August.
  • Weekend work:
    • Between 6.00am – 4.00am: 8 and 9 August.
    • Between 6.00am – 4.00am: 29 and 30 August.

 

What to expect if you live alongside the rail corridor

To minimise the impact on nearby residents and businesses, noise-generating works will be completed during the daytime wherever practical. Lower impact works including cabling will be completed at night and over selected weekends when track closures are required to safely undertake the work.

Residents near the rail corridor may notice:

  • Movement of personnel and work vehicles (including light vehicles and trucks, excavator, bob cat)
  • Low level spot-lighting specific to each site, in addition to existing rail corridor lighting
  • Possible noise and dust associated with the use of light machinery and equipment
  • Possible partial road closures subject to access in the corridor, additional notification will be provided if any temporary closures are required.

To minimise impacts:

  • All works are to be completed within acceptable noise levels and regulations. Noise minimisation practices will be adopted in relation to vehicles and machinery after hours, while personnel noise will be kept to a minimum.
  • Soil disturbance will be minimised by watering down if required, modifying work methods on high wind days, and using dust suppression techniques if necessary.
  • Complementary spot lighting only will be used, specific to the site.
  • All site workers will be briefed as part of the induction program and regular toolbox talks on key community considerations in relation to noise, dust, lighting, access, parking, and shared responsibility to the community.
  • Advanced warnings of rail and road closures to allow commuters to make alternative arrangements if required.

We appreciate your patience and we will continue to update you as work progresses.
 

What to expect if you’re a commuter

From time-to-time, to undertake this work safely these works will necessitate track closures. These will be scheduled at non-peak times and over selected weekends to minimise any inconvenience. Bus services will replace trains in instances where services are impacted.

Notices will be placed at affected train stations notifying customers of any changes to scheduled services. If travelling after peak on weeknights or on weekends, plan your journey by visiting translink.com.au, calling 13 12 30 or downloading the TransLink app.

If you want to know more, all of this information is available in PDF form: