The proposal:
A great trail with some serious tunnels and great scenery.
Background
The Richmond Vale Rail Trail proposal started in around 1999/2000 and involved Cessnock City Council (CCC), Coal & Allied and Newcastle City Council (NCC). It was proposed to develop a shared cycling and walking trail along the disused Richmond Vale railway line that runs from Hexham to Kurri Kurri.
Preliminary studies have been undertaken covering aspects of the Richmond Vale Rail Trail:
- CCC facilitated a tourism study using UTS students to examine and report on the feasibility of the RVRT. Much of this report is available, and
- ARUP Pty Ltd was commissioned to complete a report on Cycle Tourism in the Hunter Region. That report was delivered in September 2005.
What we need to do to make this happen.
- We need the resources – commitment, people and funds
- Agreement with the three councils CCC, Lake Macquarie City Council and NCC
- To demonstrate the need and cost benefit of the RVRT to the community and Hunter tourism
Establish the risks and issues that have to be overcome
- Track security
- Tunnel lighting
- Rest areas including water points and “long drops”
- Trestle bridge restoration (structural integrity – albeit to reduced capacity)
- Staged development
How will it be managed
- Overall project management
- During construction
- As sections are opened
- Once completed
Events
7 May 2019: Community Picnic at the Richmond Vale Rail Trail, Special guest Meryl Swanson MP, Log of Knowledge Park, Kurri Kurri, NSW
27 September 2017: FREE CONFERENCE Active Transport: The Richmond Vale Rail Trail, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW
