<span class="" id="parent-fieldname-description"> NSW minister for transport Gladys Berejiklian has called for community feedback on plans for the new Wickham Transport Interchange, with planning documents for the project now on public display. </span> <p>The Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for Wickham is on public exhibition from today until 30 August, at a number of locations in Newcastle, Hamilton and Maitland, as well as <a href="http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects-wickham-transport-interchange">online</a>.</p><p>Wickham Transport Interchange is part of the state government’s Newcastle Urban Renewal Strategy, which includes the development of a light rail system for the city. The planned interchange will see the intersection of the existing heavy rail line at Wickham station and the new light rail network.</p><p>Berejiklian said truncating the heavy rail line and creating a state-of-the-art transport interchange at Wickham is a key part of the NSW Government’s plans to revitalise Newcastle – helping bring jobs, residents and visitors into the city centre.</p><p>“The REF gives the community a first look at the new interchange at Wickham, which will transform the area and provide seamless connections for customers catching trains, buses, light rail and taxis,” Berejiklian said.</p><p>“The new station and interchange will include fully accessible train platforms, security measures including CCTV, modern signage, ‘kiss and ride’ facilities, taxi bays and easy access to light rail and buses.</p><p>“As we get on with the job of truncating the heavy rail line and starting work on a new light rail system for Newcastle, Wickham will become a hub for thousands of customers travelling in and around Newcastle and the Hunter.”</p><p>Berejiklian said feedback from the local community will help to shape the final design and delivery of the interchange and truncation project.</p><p>“Our customers know what’s most important to them when they’re using public transport, so we want to hear all viewpoints to make sure we get this crucial piece of infrastructure right,” she said.</p><p>The REF provides details about construction of the interchange, including proposals to minimise noise, traffic, heritage and environmental impacts on the local community. It also includes details of longer term benefits to the area as a result of the project.</p>
