FREIGHT services on a section of the Hunter Valley rail network will stop while the line is closed for maintenance works.
The Australian Rail Track Corporation is planning a major maintenance shutdown from Newcastle to Ulan and Narrabri from Tuesday 4 April until Thursday 6 April.
The rail network is mainly used to transport coal from Hunter Valley mines to Port of Newcastle, but is also used by general and bulk freight services and passenger services.
ARTC group executive Hunter Valley Wayne Johnson said the shutdown is required to upgrade level crossings and carry out bridge maintenance to ensure the network operates effieinctly.
“We will have 120 separate maintenance jobs to complete such as track resurfacing at the level crossings in Liverpool Street and Common Road in Scone, which will require temporary controls and detours,” he said.
“While freight services and passenger services will be stopped, we ask motorists to remain vigilant and slow down at level crossings during the shutdown as there will be machinery and other movements on the rail line.
“We want to reassure the community these works will be completed as safely and efficiently as possible.
“We apologise for any disruption or inconvenience and thank the community for its support and patience while these essential works are taking place.”
Maintenance works are scheduled to start at around 0630 on 4 April and wrap up at around 2030 on 6 April.
