The extension of the Sydney Metro Northwest will enable the 66km metro line from Tallawong to Bankstown to be operated and maintained by NRT, while the NSW Government retains ownership. NRT was awarded the A$3.7 billion Operations Trains and Systems (OTS) contract in 2014 to deliver the Sydney Metro Northwest and operate it for 15 years; the contract was specifically set up to allow it to be varied, so that any future changes and expansion to the Sydney Metro line could be accommodated. The NSW Government has approved Sydney Metro exercising a pre-agreed extension, which means NRT has been awarded a A$2 billion contract to operate and maintain the full 66km, 31 stations metro line from Tallawong to Bankstown, which will pass under Sydney Harbour and through the Sydney CBD. NRT has also been awarded a A$1.7 billion contract for 23 new metro trains and core rail systems.
Ashurst advised the NSW Government on all aspects of the contract package. This included working with Sydney Metro to negotiate, agree and execute as part of this process a Framework Agreement, Commitment Deed and Contract Finalisation Deed, as well as providing strategic structuring advice.
Partner Harvey Weaver commented:
"We are delighted to have again advised the NSW Government on the Sydney Metro project. It is a hugely significant transaction to the state and we are very pleased to have been able to contribute our expertise and help them reach this milestone."
Global co-head of projects and real estate, Lee McDonald added:
"Our continuing work for Sydney Metro draws on an extensive team from practice areas across the firm, highlighting the collaborative way we work to deliver exceptional results for our clients and reinforcing our position as a leading firm in the delivery of significant infrastructure around the world."
The Ashurst team was led by Lee McDonald* and Harvey Weaver*, supported by partner Simon Irvine, consultant Matthew Stott, senior associates Julie Ma, Tamsyn Zulch*, Hannah Freeman and Andrew Higgins, associates Caitlyn Read, David O'Carroll*, Kylie Hope, Rhiannon Evans, Marya Atmeh, Christina Kopoulos and Talia Lake. Lawyers from the firm's planning and environment, finance, corporate, employment, dispute resolution, competition and IP/Media teams also advised.
*Lee and Harvey are both qualified in England & Wales and are Australian-registered foreign lawyers. Tamsyn is admitted in South Africa, not admitted in Australia. David is admitted in Ireland, not admitted in Australia.
