Glen Innes Severn Council has announced a major milestone in the journey to bring the New England Rail Trail to fruition, with the signing of a licence agreement with NSW’s Transport Holding Entity through its contractor, UGL. This agreement grants the Council access to the rail corridor, enabling critical survey and investigative work needed to progress the project.
After nearly a year of negotiations with UGL, the agreement now authorises the Council to enter the corridor and carry out site-specific investigations. These works are required under the NSW Rail Trails Framework, including essential environmental assessments, marking a vital step towards the project’s realisation.
Additionally, the Council is awaiting a response to a request submitted in April to amend the project scope. In light of this request, the Department of Primary Industries and Development has confirmed it is conducting a project viability review, part of a broader review affecting similar projects funded by the same program.
Mayor Cr Margot Davis stated, “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.”
She further highlighted the economic and social benefits, noting, “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.”
While delays have been frustrating, Cr Davis is optimistic: “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.”
Recent Council activities to advance the project include:
– Receiving a letter of support from the local state member.
– Allocating Council funds to facilitate preliminary work.
– Conducting an additional community survey earlier this year, in response to requests.
– Noting the formation of a local Rail Trail support group.
– Collaborating with Local Land Services to address 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 of the community to keep it on track.”
