Trains will not stop at Armidale, Uralla, Walcha Road, Kootingal, and Tamworth stations for six weeks from Wednesday, 21 October, as crews upgrade the stations for the new Regional Rail Fleet.
Replacement coaches will run between Werris Creek and Armidale until Wednesday, 2 December, and Kevin Anderson MP is worried about what happens if the work runs late.
The NSW Government is delivering new regional trains with improved accessibility, enhanced safety features, modern facilities, and greater reliability. Stations and rail infrastructure across the state need upgrades to take them.
Work at the five stations will include platform upgrades and resurfacing, accessibility improvements, new fencing and lighting, drainage and underground service upgrades, and assisted boarding infrastructure. Crews will also remove or relocate redundant assets, and carry out site investigations and vegetation management.
“These upgrades are a critical milestone in preparing the network for the introduction of the new Regional Rail Fleet,” said Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary Infrastructure Projects and Engineering Raquel Rubalcaba.
“The work will improve station infrastructure, accessibility and operational facilities while ensuring the stations are ready to accommodate the new trains.”
Passengers can still book and travel during the closure. The coaches will follow existing train timetables, although they may not run at exactly the same times. Everyone booked on a service in this period will be told by SMS or email that it will run as a coach rather than a train.
“We understand these temporary closures will impact passengers who regularly travel through Armidale, Uralla, Tamworth, Walcha Road and Kootingal, and we thank them for their patience while this important work is carried out,” said NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Roger Weeks.
“We encourage passengers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and check the latest travel information before travelling,” Mr Weeks said.
Passengers are encouraged to arrive at least 20 minutes before their scheduled departure time. Those needing accessible transport or travel assistance should contact NSW TrainLink before travelling.
Mr Anderson said the closure will hit people who rely on the train.
“This is a concern for many in our community who rely on the train service, especially those with mobility issues who find it easier to board a train than a coach,” he wrote.
“I’m particularly concerned about any delays.”
“If the work is delayed, it could impact the busy school holiday, Christmas and Tamworth Country Music Festival periods.”
“Any delays will be unacceptable and I’ve asked the government to stick to the schedule and keep the community updated on progress.”
Train services will resume at all five stations on Thursday, 3 December. Minor works will continue at and around the stations until Thursday, 24 December.
“Completing these upgrades now will help deliver a better experience for passengers and support the long-term reliability of regional rail services,” Ms Rubalcaba said.
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