Abandoned train tunnels 20 metres below the Sydney CBD have been turned into a historic tourist hotspot after a million-dollar makeover by the Minns Labor Government.
Built in the 1920s, visitors will be able to explore hidden parts of the St James Tunnels following restoration and revitalisation works to create a unique underground experience.
St James Tunnels will combine a historical walking tour with an immersive multimedia and soundscape attraction, offering visitors a snapshot of our city's transport and wartime past.
Once utilised as a World War II air raid shelter, tour groups will be able to walk through the disused southern tunnel, extending under Hyde Park, from busy St James station.
The tunnels were part of visionary engineer John Bradfield's intended east-west rail corridor, but this was abandoned in the face of the Great Depression and disagreements over rail routes.
Two of the constructed tunnels at St James station have been in continuous use as part of the City Circle since opening in 1926, but the other two were never put into active service.
Experience-led tourism is a key priority of the NSW Government, with plans to help transform the state's visitor economy into a $91 billion powerhouse by 2035.
The St James Tunnels tour is expected to be a visitor drawcard, similar to award-winning attractions in London which explore disused tube stations and secret wartime shelters.
The tour is anticipated to run several times a day and will be suitable for visitors aged 13 and above. Once an operator is appointed, tours are expected to commence later this year.
Minister for Transport John Graham said:
"These historic tunnels are more than just infrastructure; they are an expression of Sydney's development as a modern, international city. These tunnels belong to the people of NSW, so it's fantastic news that they'll become another of our city's great public spaces.
"Tours like Bridgeclimb on the Harbour Bridge are now a must-do experience for Sydney locals and visitors alike. In time, we want to see tours of the St James tunnels become just as popular.
"I want to congratulate the teams who worked so hard underground in a difficult environment to preserve the heritage of the site and reimagine it into an exciting and educational experience.
TAM Chief Executive Lyndal Punch said:
"Transport Asset Manager of NSW (TAM) is proud to be leading this innovative project, unlocking a disused, historic rail asset while using multimedia technology to tell the story of Sydney's city railway development.
"This new visitor attraction will ensure the stories of the past continue to inspire future generations."
Sydney Trains Chief Executive Matt Longland said:
"We are very excited be part of this unique transport project which is turning a once disused and unseen heritage site into a fascinating, interactive and educational visitor experience.
"The St James Tunnels are a window into our transport past, a snapshot of World War II history, and the efforts of the workers who built Sydney's transport infrastructure."
