The NSW Government is progressing on the fast rail network, linking regional centres to each other and Sydney, significantly slashing travel times across the State.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman recently met with Professor Andrew McNaughton, the international fast rail expert who has been appointed to provide advice to the NSW Government on how the government should best deliver a fast rail network.
Professor McNaughton will identify the preferred alignment of the rail line, recommended train speeds and station locations. This work will also inform potential improvements to existing rail corridors in the short to medium term.
The NSW Government committed an initial $295 million over the next four years to begin working on a fast rail network to better connect NSW. Of this, $80 million has been allocated for preliminary work on a new straightened route to a high-speed standard between Menagle and Yerrinbool, between the Highlands and Campbelltown, north of Goulburn.
“We discussed the feedback the Professor has received from stakeholders in the Southern Highlands and Southern Tablelands region. I shared my views on the benefits faster rail would deliver for local jobs growth and better customer utilisation.
“I look forward to seeing the fast rail strategy when it is completed and more importantly seeing the NSW Government’s investments deliver faster travel times and an improved rail experience.
“As this project progresses and a fast rail network becomes a reality, the Goulburn electorate can potentially expect to see their travel times reduced by 75 per cent.
“Transformative infrastructure like fast rail cannot be built overnight. It requires a bold vision for improved connectivity that clearly articulates where and when fast rail investments should be made to maximize benefits for communities.
For more information on the NSW Government’s plans for fast rail visit nsw.gov.au/fastrail and future.transport.nsw.gov.au
WENDY TUCKERMAN 