NSW Premier Chris Minns has confirmed discussions with Cessnock MP Clayton Barr regarding the potential return of passenger train services to the Coalfields. The premier also spoke with Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison about the proposal.
The last passenger services on the 30-kilometre line ended in 1972, though coal trains used the track until 2020. The Train to Cessnock campaign estimates that restoring services would cost less than $200 million, offering a cost-effective transport solution for one of the state's fastest-growing population corridors.
Speaking in Newcastle, Mr Minns acknowledged the push to reintroduce passenger trains to cater for rapid population growth between Maitland and Cessnock. 'Clayton Barr's raised it with me, and I know that there could potentially be an opportunity with some changes to the ownership,' he said.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union plans to move a motion at the state Labor Party conference in July, calling for the government to commit to restoring the rail line. RTBU NSW secretary Toby Warnes said investing in rail would help build stronger communities and drive economic growth.
A 2023 petition signed by nearly 3000 people was presented to Parliament, requesting the state government acquire the disused Maitland to Bellbird line for public transport. The 2024 Hunter Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan also recommended preserving opportunities for re-use of the rail corridor.
Campaign coordinator Andrew Fenwick described the premier's response as heartening, noting that after three years of silence, the isolated Cessnock community is now on his radar. He expressed concern that the proposal might become an election campaign topic, but welcomed the increased attention.
