Coup for commuters: Campbelltown MP Bryan Doyle with Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian at the new Glenfield train station.
THE NEW Glenfield train station and transport interchange has opened four months ahead of schedule — but it could still be too late to save local business.
Commuters used the new interchange for the first time on their way to work on Monday in what Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian said was a major milestone in the construction of the South West Rail Link.
But Glenfield Cellars co-owner Velibor Tanaskoski wasn't so enthusiastic about the new station.
"I just think it's a waste of money that ruined all the local business," he said. "It looks nice and modern and new and clean, but how long it stays that way is another question."
In July, the Advertiser reported that Glenfield Cellars and nearby shops were losing customers during the upgrade because on-street parking at Railway Parade had been blocked off.
Shopkeepers also wanted to see one-way street Magee Lane reversed to make it easier for customers to park and make a purchase.
Mr Tanaskoski said he thought it would take at least a year for customers to return to Glenfield.
"To gain a customer you've got to get them into the habit of coming to you, but you can lose them overnight," he said.
"I'm burnt out and I can't deal with it any more."
The upgraded train station includes new lifts, a new aerial concourse, upgraded platforms and platform canopies.
There is also a new ticket office, toilets, bus interchange, kiss-and-ride passenger drop-off facilities and more CCTV and lighting.
"It's the first time that lift access has been available at Glenfield, which is great news for people with limited mobility, the elderly and families with prams," Ms Berejiklian said.
"Major construction is well under way on the new rail line between Glenfield and Leppington, the new Edmondson Park and Leppington stations are taking shape and major road and rail bridge works have started, including the crossing of the Hume Highway and Cowpasture Road."
Over coming months, Glenfield station will also see the installation of bike racks, awnings, as well as minor platform works, removal of the temporary pedestrian footbridge and landscaping.