Client
Transport for NSW
Sector
Rail Infrastructure
Location
Towradgi
Wodi Wodi Dharawal
State
NSW
Towradgi Station Upgrade
The Towradgi Station Upgrade improved accessibility, connectivity and customer experience through a new footbridge, lifts and upgraded station facilities. The project also delivered innovative sustainability outcomes and a design that celebrates the stories, culture and Country of the Saltwater Wodi Wodi people.
Celebrating Country Through Design
Working closely with the Illawarra Aboriginal Land Council and Coomaditchie United Aboriginal Corporation, the project incorporated cultural narratives informed by local knowledge and engagement.
Totem animals, natural landscape motifs and symbolic colours representing the stories of the Saltwater Wodi Wodi people were integrated into the station’s architecture and landscaping. These elements create a meaningful connection between the upgraded station, the local community and Country.
Improving Accessibility and Connectivity
The upgrade delivered a new footbridge and lifts connecting the station platforms, along with improved weather protection, accessibility features and customer amenities. Enhanced landscaping and connections through the station precinct created a more accessible and welcoming experience for customers.
Transparent elements within the station design retain views towards the Illawarra escarpment and ocean, while screening patterns draw inspiration from the surrounding forest canopy.
Navigating Complex Delivery Conditions
The project team managed delivery through COVID-19 restrictions and periods of industrial action. Careful planning, stakeholder coordination and adaptable delivery approaches helped maintain progress while the accessibility, cultural and sustainability outcomes were brought together.
Driving Sustainable Innovation
In collaboration with the University of Wollongong, the project installed Infrastructure Sustainability Council-verified Australian-first foamed concrete cladding panels. Made using recycled glass, carbon fibre and aerated concrete, the panels are up to 60 per cent less carbon-intensive than standard concrete.
Where practical, the project also prioritised low-carbon and recycled materials, including supplementary cementitious materials in concrete, recycled masonry for subbase and reclaimed asphalt pavement. Strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors supported the delivery of these innovative solutions.
Scope of Work
- New footbridge connecting station platforms
- New passenger lifts with access to the footbridge and platforms
- New stairs on either side of the footbridge
- Platform widening and reformation works
- Replacement of platform shelters
- New accessible parking spaces and kiss and ride facilities
- New footpaths linking the station to accessible parking and kiss and ride areas
- Upgraded toilet facilities, including a family-accessible toilet with an adult change table
- New station services equipment room (SSER)
- Upgrades to CCTV, lighting, wayfinding, signage, handrails and drainage
- Weather protection across customer waiting areas
- Landscaping improvements throughout the station precinct
- New community meeting places with seating in Weber Park
- Aboriginal cultural design elements integrated throughout the station
- Australian-first foamed concrete cladding panels incorporating recycled glass, carbon fibre and aerated concrete
- Low-carbon and recycled materials utilised throughout construction
Degnan’s Illawarra Station Upgrades:
Finalist in the 2024 Banksia Foundation awards for Placemaking.
Our goal was to produce station upgrades that prioritise user experience and accessibility, using a holistic approach that embraces urban design principles and celebrates natural elements.
History
Towradgi Station was opened in 1948
Towradgi is derived from a Dharawal word Kow-radgi, meaning guardian of the sacred stones
One of the Towradgi landmarks is the small bridge on Towradgi Road that passes over the train
This bridge is affectionately known in the area as the Towradgi Hump due to its short and steep rise* It has been provided entertainment for many young drivers in the area!
