Major maintenance is expected to close the Hunter Valley rail corridor for up to 72 hours next week, according to the ARTC.
The works are part of a planned program to maintain high safety and resilience standards throughout the region.
And, they’ll take place between:
- Warabrook/Kooragang to Muswellbrook from 6.30am on Monday 30 March to 6.30am on Wednesday 1 April
- Muswellbrook to Ulan and Muswellbrook to Turrawan from 6.30am on Monday 30 March to 6.30am on Thursday 2 April
Australian Rail Track Corporation crews will focus on critical maintenance and defect removal including track geometry repairs, component replacements and other scheduled works.
“The Hunter Valley network is a critical link in the region’s economy and maintaining it requires planned periods of intensive work,” group executive operations Clinton Crump said.
“This shutdown enables our teams to undertake essential maintenance and upgrades that will improve the lines’ safety, reliability and long-term performance.
“So, these works are an important investment to ensure the corridor can continue to support increasing freight volumes and passenger services into the future.
“We appreciate the Hunter Valley community’s patience and understanding while it’s undertaken.”
Additional activities include culvert replacement; rerailing; drainage; level crossing repairs; bridge repairs and track reconditioning.
ARTC crews will minimise the impact of the work wherever possible, from positioning light towers to shine away from residences, and watering down work areas to limiting the number of machines operating at any one time.
Coaches are also replacing NSW TrainLink services during the trackwork period and customers are encouraged to visit transportnsw.info or phone 13 22 32 for assistance in planning their journey.
Information on road closures or diversions and alternative routes can be found at livetraffic.com.
“We’re reminding motorists and pedestrians to remain vigilant for altered traffic conditions near the rail corridor, pay attention to signage and to obey all road rules at level crossings, with rail machinery active on rail lines,” Mr Crump said.
Up-to-date information regarding any changes to the works can be found on the ARTC Trackwork website and, for additional information, community members may contact ARTC’s Community line on 1300 550 402.
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