Opposition transport spokeswoman Penny Sharpe released an internal memo to NSW TrainLink staff this week that noted connecting train services between the Hunter line and Newcastle/Central Coast line would no longer be held for passengers during peak travel times in the morning and evening.

But a spokesperson for Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian has responded, saying that NSW TrainLink was dedicated to reducing delays and providing comfortable and reliable public transport.

“NSW TrainLink was set up by this government to focus solely on the needs of customers travelling longer distances from places like Maitland, Newcastle and the Hunter,” the spokesperson said.

“With extra staff on the ground at Hamilton, we have seen them in action helping customers and making sure the interchange works well.

“We know there will be changes but it will be worth it when light rail and the new interchange are completed.”

The memo, released on Wednesday, noted that the rail truncation had minimised the path available to trains, which affected the time available to hold certain services for connections at Hamilton, where the line now terminates.

“Previously, departing Hunter Valley services could be held at Hamilton waiting for arriving trains from Sydney to enable customers to change trains,” it said.

“The reverse also happened with Sydney-bound trains being held at Hamilton waiting for trains arriving from the Hunter Valley.

“Continuing to do this is not viable and the timetable cannot be maintained during the peak times.”

The government began its planned work to truncate the line in late December despite a High Court ruling that an Act of Parliament was needed to remove the transport infrastructure.

Contractors have not removed any of the tracks, but surrounding infrastructure such as electricity wires have been taken down.

Parts of the track, most notably at the Stewart Avenue crossing, have been covered by road base.