(Second Reading Debate, 11 October 2022, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

The Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Amendment (Facilitation of Sydney Metro West) Bill 2022 will allow Sydney Metro to acquire substratum land under the Domain to build a turnback tunnel for Sydney Metro West trains to terminate, turn and return to the Hunter Street station. The Royal Botanic Garden and Domain play vital roles in providing public open space with green grass and trees at the fringe of the central business district. It is used by inner city residents and workers, as well as visitors from the wider metropolitan area and tourists. I would oppose any threat to these essential parklands, and have done so in the past. I sought additional briefings about this proposal and was given strong assurances that it will not impact on the park.

The tunnel will run deep under the Domain with substratum land. I have been informed that there will be no surface or surface infrastructure damage. While some disturbance to grass may occur for geotechnical investigations, it will be minor and easily repaired. The depth of the tunnel is below where tree roots can grow, so trees will not be affected. Public transport must expand and fast, efficient transport options are needed to ensure that Sydney has a global city status. I welcome the delivery of new public transport options and am confident that the Domain will not be damaged in any way. I thank the Minister's office for taking the time to take me through this proposal.