Weekend testing resumes following record Vivid patronage
19.06.2026
Sydney Metro played a key role in keeping festivalgoers moving throughout Vivid Sydney, delivering 226 additional weekly services, bringing the total to more than 600 extra services across the 23-night event.
On Sunday 7 June, the M1 line achieved its busiest Sunday on record, with more than 164,300 journeys. Barangaroo Station once again proved to be a major gateway for visitors. After recording its busiest evening on record during last year’s Vivid Sydney, the station experienced strong patronage again this year, with more than 19,100 boardings, its busiest Sunday ever.
Following the success of Vivid Sydney services, M1 line closures return to facilitate Southwest Metro testing and commissioning. This work is essential to ensure the safe and reliable integration of the converted line to Bankstown ahead of opening later this year.
Upcoming changes in Metro services Full line closures:
- Saturday 20 June to Sunday 21 June
- Saturday 27 June to Sunday 28 June
- Saturday 11 July to Sunday 12 July
- Saturday 18 July to Sunday 19 July
- Saturday 25 July to Sunday 26 July
- Monday 27 July to Wednesday 29 July from 9.50pm nightly
Replacement buses will run between Tallawong and Chatswood, with Sydney Trains services between Chatswood, the City and Sydenham.
Partial line closure:
- Monday 22 June to Wednesday 24 June
From 9.50pm nightly, metro services will operate between Tallawong and Martin Place, Martin Place and Central only. Use trains between Central and Sydenham.
Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and check travel apps before using metro during these periods.
When metro services to Bankstown begin in the second half of this year, the M1 line will stretch 66 kilometres from the Sydney’s northwest, beneath the Sydney CBD and through to Bankstown. The line will serve 31 stations, connecting some of Sydney’s busiest suburbs through the heart of the Sydney CBD.