Maitland to Whittingham Third Track Project
Construction progressing well
Since work on the Third Track project commenced in May 2011, significant progress has been made on all aspects of the project including earthworks, drainage improvements, utility relocations, piling and bridge girder installations. It is expected that the laying of the third track will commence in early 2012.
Contact the Community Consultation team on 1800 216 317 or communityinput@hunter8.com for more information.
Project Background
The Maitland to Whittingham Third Track project was announced by former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in November 2008 as part of the Government's Nation Building package. The project is also part of the Australian Rail Track Corporation's Hunter Valley Capacity Improvement Strategy.
The ARTC has formed the Hunter 8 Alliance with John Holland Group and GHD in order to design and build the new track in two concurrent stages:
Minimbah Bank: This stage of the project has now been completed. The project involved adding a third track between Minimbah and Whittingham, as well as constructing two new overbridges at the Golden Highway and the Range Road level crossings. It also included the construction of a new retaining wall adjacent to the New England Highway.
Maitland to Minimbah: This stage of the project involves the design and construction of a third track as well as associated infrastructure between Maitland and Minimbah. The project has received approval from both the NSW Department of Planning (DOP) and the Federal Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWEP). Construction is now underway.
Project Benefits
The benefits of the Maitland to Whittingham Third Track project include:
- Improved rail reliability
- Generation of an estimated 650 full-time jobs during construction
- Opportunities for local and regional goods and service providers
- Enhanced security of existing coal jobs
- Project related works will create a safer alternative for pedestrians and road users
| Title | Uploaded |
|---|---|
| Project Fact Sheet | 20 May 2009 |
| Project Map | 18 Jun 2009 |