Following the recent derailment at the Berrima Road level crossing involving a Southern Shorthaul Railroad (SSR) service, SSR's rail operations have been suspended, requiring Boral to temporarily move product by road from Peppertree Quarry and the Marulan South Limestone Mine.
The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has endorsed temporary transport arrangements that allow Boral to shift rail freight operations to road transport. As a result, road haulage volumes will increase until 15 August 2026, or until SSR's rail accreditation is reinstated, whichever occurs first.
Under these arrangements, Boral may dispatch up to 300 laden trucks per day from Peppertree Quarry and up to 150 laden trucks per day from the Marulan South Limestone Mine, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This will result in a significant increase in heavy vehicle movements on Marulan South Road and other local freight routes.
While Council was not consulted prior to the Department's decision, we are now working with Boral to manage community concerns and assess impacts on road condition and safety.
Council will undertake urgent condition assessments of the affected road and continue discussions with Boral regarding monitoring, maintenance and mitigation measures during this temporary period.
Council acknowledges the concerns of residents and will continue to advocate for the community while supporting safe and effective freight movements.
