New trams 'will improve accessibility' in Melbourne

The arrival of 50 new low-floor trams in Melbourne later this year will improve public transport right across the city, according to premier Ted Baillieu and state transport minister Terry Mulder.

The new E-class trams, which are currently under construction at Dandenong, will each have the capacity to transport more than 200 passengers - and some could be on the line before the end of the year.

Baillieu stated: "The new trams will have a low floor to provide easier access at tram stops, and slip-resistant floors and air-conditioning to improve passenger comfort and safety."

He added that the trams will play an essential role in improving accessibility for passengers right across the city.

In preparation for the new low-floor trams, Southbank Depot is undergoing a $24 million makeover, which will provide new infrastructure facilities for Yarra Trams.

As proximity to public transportation is one of the key things tenants consider when choosing a prospective rental property, the new trams may be warmly welcomed by those with a Melbourne investment property.

Mulder stated: "Melbourne's tram network is the world's largest, with about 182 million passenger trips now made on our trams each year. We are committed to upgrading both the network and trams to improve accessibility."

Posted by Sara Pritchard