The Boolaroo and Argenton communities will soon benefit from a more accessible Cockle Creek Station with confirmation that construction work is planned to commence in mid-2026.
The upgrade is being delivered by the Minns Labor Government's Safe and Accessible Transport program and will deliver accessible, modern and integrated public transport facilities for residents and visitors to Cockle Creek.
The upgrade includes improved footbridge access to the station with new lifts and stairs, accessible paths to station amenities including improvements to Lake Road entry, a new kiss and ride zone, new accessible parking spaces and bicycle parking.
It will also include CCTV cameras and wayfinding signage, improved connections to the bus stop, tactile indicators, and other upgrades to make facilities at the station more accessible.
Early investigations for the scope of works will be undertaken by Transport for NSW in the coming months, with construction planned to start in mid-2026. A Review of Environmental Factors will be displayed ahead of construction.
Construction is expected to take one year, weather permitting, with the upgrades complete by mid-2027. The station will remain operational except for advertised weekend closures.
Minister for Transport, John Graham said:
"With more people using Cockle Creek Station than ever before, and continued growth projected for the region, it's great to hear work will begin on the accessibility upgrades in early 2026.
"These upgrades to Cockle Creek Station are a great first step in improving safety and amenity for people, including seniors and people living with disability, travelling between Sydney and Newcastle".
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:
"This is another great example of the Minns Labor Government delivering for the Hunter, making every day travel safer, easier and more accessible for local people."
"The Cockle Creek Station upgrade will give residents more choice and confidence when using public transport, whether they're heading to work, school or the shops."
"It's fantastic to see investment flowing into our region to create a transport network that keeps the Hunter connected and supports our growing communities."
Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said:
"Making public transport more accessible is an absolute priority of the Minns Labor Government, because we know the difference it makes to people's lives.
"The accessibility upgrades at Cockle Creek Station are yet another clear demonstration of our commitment to build a better, more inclusive NSW."
Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:
"I'm proud to see work moving ahead to make Cockle Creek Station safer and more accessible for the local community.
"The Safe and Accessible Transport program aims to ensure the NSW Government is creating and building on well-connected, well-serviced neighbourhoods.
"This is all part of the Minns Labor Government's plan to build better communities for NSW.
"We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and connected transport network right across NSW, one that works for everyone, no matter where they live or how they travel."
Duty MLC for Lake Macquarie, Emily Suvaal said:
"This upgrade is great news for the local area and will make a real difference for people who rely on Cockle Creek Station every day.
"The improvements to access, parking and safety will help more people connect easily with work, school, shops and local services.
"Projects like this show the Minns Labor Government is focused on building better connections and investing in the infrastructure that keeps our communities moving."
Member for Lake Macquarie, Greg Piper said:
"This is a great first step in improving safety and amenity for people to travel to, from and around the Hunter via Cockle Creek station.
"This project will make it easier for everyone to use public transport, whether you're travelling with a pram, bike or luggage, or you need extra support to get around.
"Accessible transport means freedom and independence. It allows people to get to work, appointments and social activities in ways that suit their needs."
