NSW Minister for the North Coast and Ballina MP Don Page today announced a tender to evaluate the costs of restoring and maintaining the 130km-long Casino to Murwillumbah rail line for heavy or light rail passenger services.

Mr Page said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government was delivering on its commitment to examine options for the line and broader transport options in the region, which has been supported by a $2 million allocation in the recent Budget.

“The NSW Government is serious about addressing the transport needs of regional NSW, including the North Coast – we are getting on with the job of taking a comprehensive look at what would be required to restore this line and maintain it for passenger services,” Mr Page said.

“Advertisements seeking tenders will appear in local newspapers next week. Transport for NSW will seek experts who will evaluate the likely restoration and ongoing maintenance costs and look at potential rail connections through to South East Queensland.”

The tender closes in January 2012 and is expected to be awarded in February 2012. It is expected this work will be complete by October 2012.

The successful tenderer will work with Transport for NSW staff to complete the following:
- a condition survey of the existing line
- an evaluation of works and costs required to restore and maintain the line for use by train services
- an assessment of the potential to introduce light rail or other commuter services on the line including likely costs and patronage
- estimated costs for rolling stock
- an assessment of the potential to extend rail services in northern NSW to connect with Coolangatta Airport and Queensland rail services.

The first work is expected to start in February 2012 and will involve inspections to assess the condition of the track, bridges, level crossings, signalling and other rail infrastructure.

“The NSW Government is committed to providing the right mix of transport services for customers on the North Coast and these investigations are the start of that process,” Mr Page said.

“This will be a comprehensive study that will enable the Government to make a thoroughly informed decision about the future of the rail line.

“Local councils will be consulted and the results of this study will feed into the transport masterplan, which is being developed by the NSW Government.”