Minister for Transport and Minister for the Hunter Gladys Berejiklian today encouraged the community to provide feedback on plans for the new Wickham Transport Interchange, with planning documents for the project now on public display.
The Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for Wickham is on public exhibition from today until 30 August, giving the community a chance to have their say about the future of the city’s new modern, fully accessible transport interchange.
Ms Berejiklian said truncating the heavy rail line and creating a state-of-the-art transport interchange at Wickham is a key part of the NSW Government’s plans to revitalise Newcastle – helping bring jobs, residents and visitors into the city centre.
“The REF gives the community a first look at the new interchange at Wickham, which will transform the area and provide seamless connections for customers catching trains, buses, light rail and taxis,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The new station and interchange will include fully accessible train platforms, security measures including CCTV, modern signage, ‘kiss and ride’ facilities, taxi bays and easy access to light rail and buses.
“As we get on with the job of truncating the heavy rail line and starting work on a new light rail system for Newcastle, Wickham will become a hub for thousands of customers travelling in and around Newcastle and the Hunter.”
Ms Berejiklian said feedback from the local community will help to shape the final design and delivery of the interchange and truncation project.
“Our customers know what’s most important to them when they’re using public transport, so we want to hear all viewpoints to make sure we get this crucial piece of infrastructure right,” she said.
The REF provides details about construction of the interchange, including proposals to minimise noise, traffic, heritage and environmental impacts on the local community. It also includes details of longer term benefits to the area as a result of the project.
Ms Berejiklian said as part of the project a number of level crossings will be opened up permanently to help cut congestion and reduce long wait times experienced daily by motorists and pedestrians. There will also be an opportunity to open up new pedestrian and road crossings to provide access between the city centre and the foreshore.
“Today more than 20 per cent of car trips are held up at the Stewart Street railway crossing every morning. Opening up this crossing will improve traffic movement through the CBD, particularly in peak periods,” Ms Berejiklian said.
The REF confirms the Railway Street crossing will need to close to accommodate more train movements and train stabling. While more detailed traffic studies are being undertaken, early studies indicate this will not have a major impact on motorists or pedestrians.
“The REF highlights the positive economic impact for Wickham and the city of Newcastle, with up to 150 new jobs expected during construction, not to mention many more when light rail construction starts,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“I expect to see growth and investment around the new modern transport hub, as well as benefits for existing Wickham businesses – both in the short term during construction and in the longer term when more people start using the interchange.
“I have always said a key part of this project from a transport point of view will be making sure we have a comprehensive bus plan in place for customers in the interim while light rail is under construction.
“Following the truncation of heavy rail on Boxing Day, trains will terminate at either Broadmeadow or Hamilton stations and buses will carry customers to and from these stations.
“When construction at Wickham is complete in 2016, buses will operate to and from the new interchange until light rail is built.
“Bus arrangements are still being finalised but I can assure customers the interim arrangements will be quick, easy and convenient for customers.
”The REF documents are now available to view at a number of locations in Newcastle, Hamilton and Maitland, as well as online at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au 
and the TfNSW website.
During the next four weeks there will be four local community information sessions held to give the community an opportunity to speak to the team managing the Wickham Transport Interchange and have their say on the plans.
Residents can also find out more by calling the Transport for NSW Project Infoline on 1800 684 490, or by emailing projects@transport.nsw.gov.au.
Further consultation will be undertaken this year as part of the planning approvals process for the light rail design.
Community invited to have their say on the future of Wickham Transport Interchange (pdf 83KB)