Restoration and preservation work is set to begin on one of the Hunter’s most popular community assets, the Fernleigh Track tunnel.
The 181-metre curved underpass will remain open to the public during the vital maintenance project, said to improve its safety, longevity and functionality.
From 1892 to 1992, the beloved tunnel was an original part of the railway line which transported coal from mines in Lake Macquarie to the Port of Newcastle.
Shortly after its closure, it reopened to the public as a cycling and pedestrian path along the Fernleigh Track in 2003.
As part of annual engineering inspections, the City of Newcastle (CN) identified the need for maintenance to ensure the safety of users and extend the life of the tunnel.
Renewal work will begin in mid-May and is expected to be completed by the end of June, weather permitting.
Steel mesh is being installed in parts of the tunnel while damaged mortar is repaired to maintain the stability of the bricks.
Weep holes will be installed into the underpass to allow for improved drainage, too.
CN’s acting executive director city infrastructure Robert Dudgeon said the needs of the community had been at the forefront of planning for this project.
“We know how popular the Fernleigh Track and tunnel are with local cyclists, runners and pedestrians,” he stated.
“The project will provide maintenance for the existing elements of the tunnel and help to reduce future renewal costs.
“However, the biggest priority is to ensure the safety and longevity of the historic site for everyone to enjoy.
“The maintenance will take place between 6pm and 2am, Monday to Friday, to minimise disruptions to daytime users.
“Additional lighting and temporary fencing will be added to the work area and clear signage will be in place at both tunnel entrances.
“In order to minimise the disturbance to users and residents, access to the tunnel will be maintained, but the usual two-lane pathway will be reduced to a single shared lane within the work zone.
“Pedestrian pathways will be clearly marked 60 metres from the tunnel entrances in both directions and traffic controllers will be on site to safely manage pedestrian and cyclist movements.
“While some noise may be noticeable during work hours because of the use of machinery and equipment, we will make every effort to minimise disturbance throughout the project.”
Other features of the works include the removal of existing graffiti and the application of a new anti-graffiti coating.
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