THE AUSTRALIAN Rail Track Corporation has commenced early works along the Albury to Illabo (A21) Inland Rail section.
ARTC said the New South Wales minister for planning declared the A21 section Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI) in March 2021.
As CSSI, early works can begin ahead of major construction to enable a more efficient process once approvals are issued.
ARTC noted the start of early works does not mean major construction of the A21 network section has been approved.
Malvyn Maylin, Inland Rail director program delivery Albury to Parkes, said in the coming months ARTC plans to start utility relocations at enhancement sites mentioned in environmental impact statement public submissions.
“These works need to occur during this period to enable the timely progress of Albury to Illabo construction once approvals are received” he said.
“During the approvals process, we are also refining detailed designs for these sites in consultation with councils and government agencies.”
Mr Maylin thanked the local community for comments raised in submissions to the Albury to Illabo section’s environmental impact statement.
“We are preparing a response to submissions report now and this will be publicly available on the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website once complete,” he said.
Permitted works include minor utilities relocations, site surveys and investigations, and storing materials within existing rail facilities along the alignment.
Some of these works may require separate environmental assessments and approvals, according to ARTC..
Between December 2022 and March 2023, specialist contractors are to relocate and install new water, gas, and telecommunication utilities in the vicinity of Pearson Street, Wagga Wagga and Urana Street, Turvey Park.
ARTC said it will notify communities of the locations where early works are planned.
