Buses will take rail commuters into Newcastle CBD from Broadmeadow when the line closes in 76 days, after the state government begins to remove the tracks between Wickham and the city.

Transport Minister and Minister for the Hunter Gladys Berejiklian said publicly yesterday that the government was treating the rail replacement service like any other timetable change.

She told a Newcastle radio station that, as a public transport user herself, she only needed to check a timetable the morning she used that mode of transport, and that people did not need 77 days warning for a new timetable.

The Mercury asked Ms Berejiklian yesterday for a guarantee that commuters would get more than a few days notice about new bus times and routes.

She responded: “Transport for NSW is finalising the contract for replacement bus services – this went through a tender process to ensure the best outcome for customers and value for money for NSW taxpayers.”

“Details will be released well in advance of Boxing Day.”

The government conducted a major overhaul of bus timetables across the state last year. 

The new state-wide timetable was released 26 days before it came into effect.

Many commuters from the greater Hunter, who live outside Newcastle and rely on public transport, are concerned about how they will access services in the city after the rail line closes.

The government has repeatedly tried to allay fears by saying details about the bus service, that would temporarily replace trains, would be announced soon.

“I completely empathise with the issues raised by residents in Maitland and that’s why the NSW government is working hard to make sure a comprehensive bus plan is in place following the truncation of the rail line and while light rail is being constructed,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Specific details about the timetable will be provided soon, well in advance of Boxing Day. 

“I can assure Maitland residents I will be doing everything possible to ensure smooth connections for customers during the transition period.”