Problem

Liverpool to Airport Transit Corridor, Fifteenth Avenue Upgrade (Stage 1) proposes upgrading approximately six kilometres of Fifteenth Avenue between Cowpasture Road and Devonshire Road from two lanes to four lanes, including upgraded intersections, walking, cycling and bus infrastructure. Delivery of the Stage 2 bus transit way and Fifteenth Avenue West extension will be progressed subject to future demand and would extend the direct bus transitway towards Bradfield, to connect with the planned Bradfield Metro Link Road.  

The proposal responds to existing congestion, safety and accessibility issues and significant future growth, with traffic demand forecast to increase from more than 22,000 vehicles per day to around 42,000 by 2036.

Strategic Fit

The proposal demonstrates a strong case for change and aligns with Australian Government objectives, including supporting housing growth in the Liverpool area. However, deferring the dedicated bus transitway and Fifteenth Avenue West extension limits public transport outcomes in the short to medium term and means longer-term capacity constraints are not fully addressed.

Societal Impact

The proposal would reduce congestion, improve accessibility and provide safer walking, cycling and bus facilities. The proposal demonstrates strong economic merit, although many intersections are forecast to operate at or above capacity by 2046–2051, reinforcing the need for future investment in the corridor.

Deliverability

The proposal is sufficiently developed to progress to delivery and the proponent has demonstrated experience delivering similar road upgrades. However, the accelerated delivery approach means design, property acquisition, utility relocation and environmental approvals are still being finalised, creating some uncertainty around the project’s final cost.

Next Steps

• We support the NSW Government’s plans to deliver Stage 1, and we recommend the proponent concurrently progresses with planning and approvals for Stage 2 to enable the bus transit corridor, and separate Fifteenth Avenue West extension to address residual congestion, maximise housing outcomes and provide direct access to employment and tourism opportunities at Western Sydney International Airport.  
• We are supportive of the proponent:
  • developing a benefits realisation plan that includes clear, measurable housing and land use targets for monitoring and public reporting  
  • engaging with Greater Sydney Parklands Trust to address access and active transport interface issues.