Next stage in development of the Richmond Vale Rail Trail near Newcastle

The proposed Richmond Vale Rail Trail (RVRT) near Newcastle NSW would be a wonderful rail trail. The Trail is a long disused colliery railway from the coastal city of Newcastle across Hexham Wetlands, through bush and farmland, through three beautiful brick-lined tunnels, numerous cuttings and over several bridges to reach the town of Kurri Kurri, which is on the doorstep of the Lower Hunter wine region.This trail and its connections would ultimately stretch over 32km. Further potential has also been identified in the many disused colliery rail lines west of Kurri Kurri.

Newcastle City Council (NCC) has lodged a Development Application (DA) for their section of the Trail, which stretches from Hexham to Lenaghan. Their section includes a substantial access trail along a water pipeline from Shortland ultimately to Tarro.

The RVRT has long been recognised as a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike, for recreation, commuting and tourism. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes recently described it as “a truly iconic infrastructure project”.

Rail Trails Australia members and supporters can support the proposed works by sending a response to mail@ncc.nsw.gov.au or by mail to City of Newcastle, PO Box 489 Newcastle 2300. Submissions should quote DA2020/00641 in the title of the submission, include the submitter’s name, address and daytime contact number and, if possible, an email address.

Submissions could for example include comments such as:

‘I support development of the Richmond Vale Rail Trail (RVRT). The RVRT would be an enormously valuable asset for the Lower Hunter. It would attract walkers and cyclists for active recreation, commuting and tourism and so would be valuable for both locals and tourists. The RVRT has enormous benefits and almost universal community support. The community has been waiting many years for the trail to be developed.’

You could also mention applicable points such as:
•  I live near the proposed RVRT and would use it regularly
•  I use the Fernleigh Track or Tramway Track (Wallsend to Glendale) (mention how often) and would love to also be able to use the RVRT
•  I have used other rail trails (specify) in the past and stayed multiple days etc as applicable

Submissions are due by 5pm Wednesday 2 September.