Review of Environmental Factors - Transport for NSW - NSW ...

• It operates on a spectrum of 1800 MHz which was available for purchase by RailCorp. Theother options would have required the leasing of a radio spectrum from atelecommunications licence holder.• It is a scalable network that can grow in step with RailCorp operations and network.• It is compatible with the Australian Rail Track Corporation’s communication system.• It provides a platform for future enhancements and increased operational safety, including aLevel 2 Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System, as per the recommendations of theWaterfall inquiry.• It will deliver the best value for money solution with the least risk.3.5 Alternatives to the Wollongong Yard SiteThe following options were considered for the development of the Wollongong Yard site:• to do nothing; or• install a new BTS, elsewhere in the Wollongong area.The do nothing option was rejected for the reasons listed below.• The inability to meet the requirement of 100% network coverage.• A ‘black spot’ in the DTRS network, resulting in a significant safety issue in the event of anemergency call or a train incident.• The increasing maintenance costs of the MetroNet facility and the limited reliability foradequate operation for the next 10 – 15 years.Radio frequency modelling indicated that a new BTS installed elsewhere in the Wollongongarea would not provide adequate coverage to the rail corridor. A second site would then berequired, increasing costs and environmental risks.3.6 Justification of the Preferred OptionOverall this work, as part of the DTRS project, will result in significant benefits by providing amore effective communications systems for the RailCorp network. The system is in use aroundthe world and allows for continuous communications coverage, the capacity to makesimultaneous calls and greatly improved emergency calling capabilities. Once active, the DTRSwill provide a more effective communications system that will assist in the safe and efficientoperation of RailCorp’s electrified rail network.It was decided to construct a BTS adjacent to Wollongong railway station because it will enablethe site to be consistent with the whole RailCorp DTRS network. Consistent technology choicewill enable RailCorp to improve its existing quality of service, reliability and emergencyresponsiveness. The reasons for selecting the technology are discussed above.Page 27 of 64