NSW Government to fund reopening of Picton Loop Line

The NSW Government has promised to reopen the Picton Loop Line as part of a bid to drive tourism in the region — just weeks out from the state election.

Nat Smith (right) with a petition to gauge community support for the project earlier this year. Picture: Robert Pozo

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On the eve of the Thirlmere Festival of Steam, the NSW Government promised to reopen the Picton Loop Line as part of a bid to drive tourism in the region.

Wollondilly Liberal candidate Nat Smith announced today $5.5 million would be put towards the NSW Rail Museum at Thirlmere to re-open the 34km length of line between Buxton and Colo Vale.

A steam train during the Thirlmere Festival of Steam.

The money will also be used to electrify signals at the Picton junction to allow trains to run between Campbelltown and the rail museum.

The announcement comes just four weeks out from the NSW Election.

“The NSW Rail Museum is so popular, events often sell out a month in advance,” Mr Smith said.

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“Reopening the Picton Loop Line will mean visitors can jump on a steam, diesel or railmotor train to travel directly to and from the museum.”

“Currently visitors using public transport have to catch a train to Picton then a bus to the museum.

“This funding will allow heritage trains to use the entire length of the track, delivering an amazing tourist experience and helping to drive more customers to local businesses.”

The work will also see new picnic areas and shelters built along the line and construction of new platforms at Hill Top and Balmoral.

Mr Smith said a community petition lobbying for the loop had showed the Government the large scale of community support for the project.

The single track was built in the 1860s and has not operated for 44 years.