The Epping to Thornleigh Third Track Construction Project enabled the construction of a third track between Epping and Thornleigh for northbound freight trains travelling up the steep climb at this location.
The project enabled passenger trains to overtake freight trains on the steep climb between Epping and Thornleigh, removing a significant congestion point on the Main North Line. Other benefits included the diversion of freight from road to rail; improved efficiency flowing from improved reliability, reduced transit times and congestion; and improved productivity from rail operations.
Completion of Stage 1 of the Northern Sydney Freight Corridor Program has helped increase rail’s market share for the transport of freight, reduce the occurrence of road accidents, and reduce air pollution, greenhouse emissions and noise.
The Australian Government contributed $360,000,000 to the project with Transport for NSW funding the remainder of the costs.
Delivery Phase funding was approved in June 2012, enabling commencement of detailed design work. Construction works for the Epping to Thornleigh Third Track commenced in November 2013, following environmental and planning approval for the project being granted in July 2013. The project was completed in June 2016.
Project last updated:
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