Adam Mattinson’s fantasy Melbourne heavy rail network in 2047. Click to see bigger version
Here’s what map maker Adam Mattinson says about his 2047 fantasy rail map (here’s a larger version):
It’s based off a proposed system by Liam Egerton for an Urbanist article in the Crikey blog. It was also inspired by Bernie Ng’s Metro map. I’ve fleshed it out a bit and added a few extras just for fun…I plan on making a sequel called the 2070 Metro map, which will be slightly more complex and include some orbital routes.
Perhaps the most notable aspect is there’s no Melbourne Metro. It’s replaced by a new Doncaster/Preston rail line in the north and connects to the Sandringham line south of the CBD, with a new branch to St Kilda.
That might seem like a big call but who’s to say Metro will be built? It’s not without it’s critics e.g. see comment today by Smith John and article by Liam Egerton, The need for Melbourne Metro is far from clear.
There’re also new lines to the airport and Newport via Fishermans Bend, as well as extensions to Mornington, Stony Point, Clyde, Rowville, Melton (electrification), Avalon Airport and Mernda.
Consistent with Liam Egerton’s argument, the city loop no longer functions as a loop e.g. rather than returning via the loop, Hurstbridge and Mernda trains would continue via Flinders St and Southern Cross stations to the airport. Very convenient for me.
He’s coloured the lines and given each one a name e.g. Melba line, Kelly line, Birrarung line (it’s obvious it’s a fantasy because not one is named after a footballer!).
I haven’t shown it because otherwise the map would be too small, but Adam’s also included a station directory on the right hand side (click the exhibit above to go to a larger version). It also previews his next project; a 2047 tram network.