The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is working with NSW TrainLink to supply bus coaches to transfer rail passengers between Moree and Narrabri and ensure continuity of train services during the commissioning of a new section of Inland Rail.
ARTC will close a section of the line from Penney's Road, Bellata north to Camurra from 6am on Monday, April 3 through 5am Friday April 10, 2023 resulting in the need for coaches to transfer rail customers between Moree and Narrabri to link with the existing passenger rail service.
A further shutdown on the Hunter Valley Network from Newcastle to Ulan and Narrabri between Tuesday, April 4 through to Thursday, April 6, 2023 will mean passengers will take a bus service for all services between Sydney and Moree.
ARTC Group Executive Hunter Valley Wayne Johnson thanked the community for its support and patience while these essential works are taking place.
"While freight services and passenger services will be stopped, we ask motorists to remain vigilant and slow down at level crossings during the shutdown as there will be machinery and other movements on the rail line," Mr Johnson said.
"A balance needed to be struck between bringing this new section on-line and considering the needs of the line's current users," he said. "We have timed the two shutdowns to align to minimise the impact as much as possible."
"One of these considerations is the continuity of services between Moree and Narrabri and discussions with NSW TrainLink has resulted in the provision of bus coaches to run between the two towns and then on to Sydney where necessary."
Alternative bus services will be provided for impacted passenger services, and details and schedules can be found at the Transport NSW website. Information on road closures and alternative routes can be found at livetraffic.com
