Save Our Rail members protested in front of Maitland Town Hall yesterday against the NSW government’s decision to replace trains with light rail into Newcastle’s CBD beyond Wickham station.

Maitland commuters have expressed concern that the plan would make it more difficult for people to get to work, medical appointments and social events.

Save Our Rail president Joan Dawson said she met with NSW Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian before the community cabinet forum to discuss her concerns. 

“We pointed out the fact that this situation is setting the minister for transport up to fail,” Ms Dawson said.

“Her goals in the major transport plan for NSW were specifically to improve the use of public transport for commuter trips to work.

“That can’t be achieved if there are delays in getting to work. Therefore that goal is set up to fail.

“The best transport result can’t be achieved by making people change transport no matter how seamless the change is.”

Premier Barry O’Farrell was asked at yesterday’s community forum whether the government considered a groundswell of public support for maintaining the heavy rail line into Newcastle.

Mr O’Farrell said his government listened to community feedback about cutting Newcastle rail line at Wickham station but the decision was made because of broader public interest.

“Yes, I’m a fan of light rail. Yes, I see light rail as a modern, efficient public transport system that can not only just service the CBD but could ultimately spread its connections,” he said.

“I want better public transport options in this region, including better public transport options into Newcastle CBD.

Mr O’Farrell said public support for his government’s decisions would ultimately be seen when voters went to the polls.