New Punchbowl plaza unlocks safer connections to Metro services

Spanning roughly 700 square metres, the new plaza provides a welcoming and accessible space linking Urunga Parade, Punchbowl Road and Breust Place via an upgraded pedestrian underpass. 

Passengers will be able to directly enter the future Punchbowl Metro Station from the plaza, making it easier for the community to move seamlessly between local streets and the metro network when services commence later this year. 

Designed as a community-focused space with features that support active transport and everyday use, the plaza includes: 

• New paving throughout 
• Bike hoops to encourage cycling and active transport 
• 1 water drinking fountain for public convenience 
• 8 newly planted trees to provide shade and greenery 
• Open space for community to gather  
• 2 timber bench seats 

Complementing the new plaza are significant improvements to the nearby pedestrian underpass, better connecting the station to local bus services, businesses and schools including Punchbowl Boys High School. Upgrades include widening of the underpass and path, enhanced lighting and CCTV to improve visibility, accessibility and safety for pedestrians. 

This opening also coincides with a major milestone across the Southwest Metro corridor, with all road-over-rail bridge upgrades now complete between Sydenham and Bankstown. 

These works mark another significant step forward in delivering Sydney Metro services and providing lasting benefits for communities along the corridor. 

Key improvements delivered include: 

• Upgrades to 15 road-over-rail bridges, creating safer, stronger and more resilient structures 
• Installation of errant and hostile vehicle treatments, including upgraded concrete barriers, new guardrails, retaining structures and protective anti-throw screens 
• New and improved footpaths along bridge decks to enhance pedestrian safety 
• Fencing, finishing and streetscaping improvements at more than 60 locations along the corridor 
• Road upgrades, including kerbside ramps and traffic signalling improvements at Wiley Park to improve access and safety for motorists and pedestrians.