ARTA Media Release
17 March 2009

Bus replacements in place from Avondale on the Western line this weekend

The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) advises that a revised timetable will be operating between Avondale and Waitakere on the Western Line on Saturday 21 March and between Avondale and New Lynn on Sunday 22 March, in order to allow for the completion of ongoing work to improve the rail network being carried out by ONTRACK.

ARTA's General Manager, Customer Services, Mark Lambert says, “Bus replacements will be in place between Avondale and Waitakere on the Western Line on Saturday, and between Avondale and New Lynn on Sunday. The work that is being done this weekend is to contribute to the development of the rail trench in the vicinity of New Lynn.”

“From Monday 23 March, commuters will use a new temporary platform at the New Lynn rail station. Access to this will remain on Totara Ave, and via a pedestrian level crossing from Clark St, near the traffic roundabout.

“The rail tracks through the town centre are being duplicated and lowered into a trench almost one kilometre long through the busy town centre. When complete, this will enable more reliable and frequent passenger and freight train services and separating road and rail traffic will improve safety and traffic flow through the area.

“A new station at New Lynn is also on the way, which will provide better facilities for rail passengers.

"We understand that the bus replacements may cause disruptions to passengers however this work will be hugely beneficial and the support and understanding of passengers while it is taking place is greatly appreciated,” Mr Lambert says.

Where buses replace trains, normal train fares will apply for the entire journey. Passengers should look out for the RAIL BUS sign at affected stations.

Passengers are advised to check timetables carefully before travelling.

Passengers can get more information about the bus replacements and about Western Line train timetables from MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or at www.maxx.co.nz

ENDS

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