NEW ENGLAND RAIL TRAIL UPDATE

Published on 06 November 2024

Glen Innes Severn Council today announced a significant step forward in delivering the New England Rail Trail by executing a licence agreement with the Transport Holding Entity of NSW Through its contractor UGL to facilitate access to the rail corridor.

After almost 12 months of negotiations with UGL, the agreement authorises Council to enter the corridor to undertake the survey and investigation works necessary to complete the on site investigation works required under the NSW Rail Trails Framework, including environmental assessment.

In conjunction with this, Council is awaiting a response to its request in May to amend the project scope.

In considering this request, the Department of Primary Industries and Development has advised it is undertaking a project viability review as it is with a number of other projects funded under the same program.

Mayor Cr Margot Davis commented, “Council has worked hard to meet all the requirements necessary to progress the project and in fact has committed its own funds to keep it on track."

Cr Davis further commented, “In addition to the economic impact of the construction phase on the community, the initial studies for the project outlined the long-term benefits of the project to the community which will be felt for decades to come. In fact, the viability of the project has only improved significantly since the original economic analysis was undertaken given the significant growth in rail trail users across Australia and the increasing role rail trails are playing in driving overnight visitors. Further to this, the amended length is logical and commensurate with other successful rail trails."

"This $8.7M project will be the largest economic/community project undertaken by Council and whilst delays are frustrating, once the project is delivered, they will be inconsequential in the context of the long-term benefits. There is no doubt that once the administrative hurdles outside the control of Council are overcome, Council will deliver the project,” Cr Davis said. 

Recent activities have included:

• Receiving a letter of support from the local state member
• Allocating Council funds in order to progress initial works.
• Undertaking a further community survey earlier this year as requested.
• Noting the formation of a local support group for the Rail Trail.
• Liaising with Local Land Services and adequately addressing any biosecurity concerns.

Cr Davis concluded, “This project is vital to diversifying our economy and building visitation to the region, Council is ensuring it does everything possible on behalf to the community to keep it on track."