Despite growing calls to delay work on the Wickham rail truncation the Premier Mike Baird used his visit to Newcastle on Thursday to reaffirm the government’s commitment to light rail.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Baird met with community groups opposed to the truncation and stakeholders in favour of the freeing up the land on Thursday morning.
“Today’s roundtable was a great opportunity to hear views from across the community,” he said.
“I look forward to everyone playing a constructive role.”
The government confirmed on Thursday that sections of the rail corridor would be up for development, but that Newcastle City Council would take the lead in determining what would be allowed.
“I know the council and some in the community have concerns about this project. We want to ensure we get the best outcome for Newcastle, which is why we are taking this step,” Mr Baird said.
“The NSW Liberals and Nationals government is revitalising Newcastle and delivering a new modern light rail network through the CBD – a job that starts with truncating the rail line and reconnecting Newcastle’s city centre with the foreshore after years of inaction.”
Buses will replace rail services from Hamilton and Broadmeadow from December 26 when work is scheduled to start on the Wickham truncation.
