Glen Innes takes step forward on Rail Trail

12th Nov 2024

Glen Innes Severn Council (GISC) last week 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 GISC to enter the corridor to undertake the survey and investigation works necessary to complete the onsite investigation works required under the NSW Rail Trails Framework, including environmental assessment.
GISC is still awaiting a response to its request in April to amend the project scope, to end the initial stage in Glencoe instead of Ben Lomond. 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.
GISC Mayor Cr Margot Davis said that council has worked hard to meet all the requirements necessary to progress the project.
“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,” Cr Davis said.
“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.
“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,” Cr Davis concluded.
This $8.7M project will be the largest economic/community project undertaken by GISC.
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.

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Glen Innes takes step forward on Rail Trail

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