- 1,000 workers deployed across 135 sites during a 72-hour shutdown
- At least 10 temporary speed restrictions to be removed to improve journey times
- Major works program to support local businesses and communities across the Hunter
A major program of maintenance and upgrades will target 135 sites across the Hunter Valley rail network, improving reliability and helping keep one of Australia's key freight corridors moving efficiently.
Works include track renewal and reconditioning; bridge and culvert repairs and replacements; rerailing; rail adjusting; level crossing upgrades and repairs; and signal and civil defect rectification. The program will also remove at least 10 temporary speed restrictions, reducing journey times and helping passenger services maintain their scheduled timetables.
ARTC will close the Hunter Valley Rail corridor from 6:30am Tuesday 22 September to 6:30am Friday 25 September to deliver the program. The works will take place between:
- Warabrook / Kooragang and Muswellbrook
- Muswellbrook and Ulan
- Muswellbrook and Turrawan
Overnight closures will also occur on the main line on Tuesday 22 September and Wednesday 23 September, from 8:20pm to 3:30am.
To keep the network safe and reliable, ARTC invests approximately $190 million annually in scheduled maintenance across its national rail network, including the Hunter Valley.
Planning for the maintenance works has been underway for more than 12 months to ensure efficient coordination and delivery. Around 1,000 workers will be deployed across the region, including 900 contractors and 100 ARTC employees.
The maintenance program will also deliver flow-on benefits to local communities including Maitland, Singleton, Muswellbrook, and Denman, with workers supporting local accommodation, hospitality, and other service providers.
ARTC will work to minimise impacts where possible, including managing noise, light and dust during the works.
Coaches will replace NSW TrainLink services during the shutdown. Customers are encouraged to plan ahead at transportnsw.info or by calling 13 22 32.
Information on road closures or diversions can be found at livetraffic.com.
Motorists and pedestrians should remain alert near the rail corridor, follow signage and obey all road rules at level crossings, with rail machinery still active on rail lines.
Up to date information is available on the ARTC Trackwork website. Travellers can also contact ARTC's Community line on 1300 550 402.
Clinton Crump, Group Executive Operations, ARTC said:
"This shutdown allows us to deliver essential maintenance and upgrades that improve the safety, reliability and resilience of the Hunter Valley network.
These works are an important investment in keeping the network reliable for both freight and passenger services.
Importantly, they also bring a strong economic boost to local communities, with 1,000 workers supporting local businesses during the shutdown.
We thank the community for their patience while these important works are carried out."
