BREAKING: Melbourne has unveiled its first new train station in over 40 years. The highly anticipated Town Hall Station, located 27 metres below Swanston Street, has officially completed construction and is now in its testing phase, with “ghost trains” already operating.
The station, part of the ambitious $13.4 billion Metro Tunnel project, promises to transform commuting in Melbourne with its advanced technology and expansive design. Although not yet open to the public, the rapid testing service is providing a glimpse of the future, with trains running as frequently as every 30 seconds. “This is literal turn up and go,” said Kate Walshe, Director of Communication for builders CYP Design and Construction, during a media tour.
The new station features two groundbreaking technologies. First, high-capacity signalling systems connect trains wirelessly, allowing them to maintain safe distances while running closer together, similar to radar cruise control in vehicles. This innovation will drastically reduce wait times for commuters. Second, the installation of platform screen doors enhances safety by preventing accidents and helps maintain comfortable temperatures at the station.
Designed with a modern aesthetic, Town Hall Station boasts lofty, cathedral-like platforms, measuring 18 metres wide—some of the largest in the world. The significant excavation for the station spans more than a city block and reaches depths comparable to a five-storey building.
The station’s unique entrance, playfully referred to as “the crypt,” is open to the public and will feature retail spaces and a large screen for community events. The design employs bright colors, inspired by Melbourne’s sunrises and sunsets, to guide passengers seamlessly through the station.
While the station mirrors the iconic architecture of the Town Hall above, the interior maintains a modern, minimalist look, with little ornamentation on the platforms. This change could leave some passengers disoriented, as the stations may appear similar.
As Melbourne prepares for a significant shift in its transportation landscape, the opening of Town Hall Station is a pivotal moment for the city’s growth and mobility. The government has not yet announced a specific opening date, but the anticipation is palpable.
Officials encourage residents to stay tuned for further updates as they finalize the operational details for this transformative addition to Melbourne’s train network.
