By Matthew Sims
The former Victoria University site in Maidstone is on track to be revived as a tram maintenance and stabling facility early next year to house and maintain the next generation of Melbourne’s tram fleet.
The state government is planning on constructing the new facility at the site on the corner of Williamson and Hampstead roads in Maidstone to help the roll out of the new tram fleet, with works expected to start early next year and trams to roll out from the facility from 2026.
Cleaning, maintenance and stabling of the new fleet will take place at the new facility, as well as housing tram operations and administration staff.
Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll said the new trams will help make public transport more accessible for all Victorians, with capacity for up to 150 passengers.
“Melbourne’s new next generation trams will be the most accessible, comfortable and energy-efficient trams ever,” he said.
“Building this new state-of-the-art facility will ensure the world’s largest tram network continues to run safely and reliably for years to come.”
With a low-floor design, the new trams can use about 30 to 40 per cent less energy per passenger compared to an E class tram.
The project will create 280 new jobs during construction and for ongoing maintenance and the supply chain, with local suppliers set to provide materials and services.
Footscray MP Katie Hall said the new facility will be a win for Melbourne’s west.
“Locals have been eager to see the Maidstone site revitalised and this project will create jobs and improve services for passengers in this part of Melbourne,” she said.
The facility is part of the state government’s $1.85 billion investment into 100 next generation trams.
Further feedback is welcome on the project, with a previous survey highlighting 65 percent of respondents used public transport, with trams the most popular, followed by buses and trains.
Details: engage.vic.gov.au/maidstone
