Burpengary train station upgrade begins
Caption: Hutchinson Builders Senior Project Manager Christopher Chainey, Burpengary Community Association President Ed Nixon, Queensland Rail General Manager SEQ Project Delivery Iva Dinolova, State Member for Kurwongbah Shane King turn the first sod at the station.
A ceremonial sod turning at Burpengary train station has signalled the start of a $53 million upgrade, the biggest since it was built 135 years ago.
State Member for Kurwongbah Shane King inspected the works at the station, which has served the Burpengary community since 1888.
Commuters have been given a first glimpse of the station’s major transformation with the demolition of platform awnings and shelters completed, as well as the installation of temporary shelters and screw piling.
The western carpark has been reconfigured to store building materials required for the major overpass installation in the new year.
The upgrade will deliver a more accessible train station for commuters by the second half of 2024, making catching a train easier for everybody - especially those using wheelchairs, pushing prams or carrying heavy luggage.
Before the end of next year, Burpengary station will have lifts, an overpass and raised platforms to reduce the gap, making boarding the train safer and easier.
There will also be a new station building, hearing augmentation loops, tactile floor indicators, signage, information screens, and better security through CCTV and lighting upgrades.
Customer facilities such as accessible toilets, a disability-compliant ticket window, improved seating and extended platform shelters will also be included.
The station will temporarily close in January, with a shuttle bus travelling from Burpengary station carpark to nearby Narangba station every 10-15 minutes during peak periods.
It is expected to reopen in September, pending construction and weather conditions. The work is expected to take 8-10 months.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey says the upgrade is important to ensure everyone has access to the station and can use it with ease.
State Member for Kurwongbah Shane King says it is the start of an ‘important journey for inclusivity at Burpengary Station’.
“In 1888 all that existed of Burpengary station was a small platform, then came the station building in 1917 and now, this excellent accessibility upgrade will see it continue to serve the community well into the next century,” Mr King says.
The Burpengary station building, which has been noted on the Queensland Rail Heritage Register was built in 1917 and will remain in pride of place on the platform as part of the upgrade.