Track closures in December and January for crucial Cross River Rail works
Project Updates
21 Dec 2023
Cross River Rail crews are preparing for one of their biggest operations yet with track closures and transport changes required from late December and then into January, to allow for critical works on the transformational project.
The track closures – taking place from 23 December 2023 until 18 January 2024 – will see all train lines on the SEQ rail network impacted at different stages.
The works will involve continuous intensive effort across multiple work sites to undertake substantial infrastructure works critical to Cross River Rail’s completion, and will include track reconfigurations, tunnel portal works, accessibility upgrades to the stations between Dutton Park and Salisbury and track as well as civil works between Bowen Hills and Albion.
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton said the nature of the work meant that track closures were unavoidable and closed tracks also meant that the works could take place safely and efficiently within the rail corridor.
“There will be plenty of accessibility improvements completed at several stations as well, including 45 tonnes of new overpass sections lifted into place at Dutton Park, installation of stairs and a lifts, and rubber fingers installed at Rocklea, that will reduce the gap between the train and platform,” he said.
“This is all critical work that requires continuous and intensive effort over a prolonged period of time in the rail corridor.
“We thank customers for their patience to allow this work to be completed safely and efficiently in the rail corridor.”
During the closures, there will be plenty of alternative transport options available, including replacement rail buses, and customers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and plan their journey before travelling.
A temporary road-to-rail transfer facility has also been built to ensure critical intermodal freight can continue to be transported to and from Brisbane.
The track closures end on Thursday January 18 with services returning to a regular timetable from first service on Friday 19 January 2024.
For more information about upcoming works and disruptions, visit Cross River Rail’s Travel Checker.
To plan your journey in advance, use the links below
The important works throughout December and January follow a road upgrade at the New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) Wulkuraka Depot, that will enable the delivery of onboard upgrades to the entire NGR fleet, and allow trains to operate on the Cross River Rail line.
The NGR onboard upgrades to be fitted include:
- European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2
- Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and
- Platform Screen Doors
These upgrades will be delivered in time for the start of services on the Cross River Rail infrastructure.