A team of archaeologists have unearthed 230-year-old relics during the start of work at the new Sydney Metro station at Parramatta.
Minister for Transport, Veterans and Western Sydney David Elliott visited the Parramatta project site to meet the team that unearthed the treasured relics – a convict hut and historical artefacts that date as far back as 1792.
“Standing near the footings of a convict hut that housed women just four years after the settlement of the new colony in the late 1700’s is truly astonishing,” Mr Elliott said. “To witness 230-year-old relics being uncovered beneath our future Sydney Metro is incredible – it’s our past meets our future in Western Sydney.”
Archaeological work is underway on site and will continue until mid-2023. A convict hut was uncovered along Church Street and experts are currently investigating its significance.
The hut dates back to 1792 and will be fully excavated from the site to be investigated thoroughly.
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“Once construction is completed, Metro West will revolutionise how connected Sydney is – bringing the Sydney and Greater Parramatta CBDs closer than ever before,” Mr Elliott added.
“With just 20 minutes between Sydney’s two major CBDs, this project will take pressure off the existing roads and transport network and connect people to jobs, major events and back home to their families.
“As we continue to modernise transport in Sydney, it is important we don’t lose sight of our past and take these opportunities to learn more about our history.”
Parramatta Station is one of nine new metro stations for the 24-kilometre Sydney Metro West line that will link Greater Parramatta and Sydney CBD. It will provide easy, efficient and accessible interchange with buses and Parramatta Light Rail.