<span class="" id="parent-fieldname-description"> The NSW Governmentâs call for registrations of interest from the private sector for the restoration, reopening and operation of the Cowra Lines in NSW is a positive sign for branch lines that under existing cost models have been seen as uneconomic. </span> <p>The 200km of rail line between Blayney and Demondrille in NSW were shut down in 2007 because of poor coordination between asset managers, high operating costs and low freight volumes, according to New South Wales minister for roads and ports, Duncan Gay.</p><p>But widespread support from local councils and mayors to reopen the tracks has triggered the state government to call on the private sector for any interest in the business.</p><p>“The government [will] work closely with the private sector to gauge interest and investigate if the Cowra Lines can be reopened and made commercially sustainable,” Gay said.</p><p>“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring rural and regional rail and road infrastructure – like the Cowra Lines – is connected to provide a high performance transport network to drive economic growth.”</p><p>Minister Gay said continued council involvement would be essential to the success of the project.</p><p>One key responsibility for local councils would be ensuring local road networks connect efficiently to intermodal terminals along the Cowra Lines, Gay said.</p><p>“The Cowra Lines project is an important and innovative pilot that could help pave the way for other parts of the state’s rail and road freight and transport network.”</p><p>Registrations of interest will be taken until October 4. More information is available on the NSW tendering website, <a href="https://tenders.nsw.gov.au">https://tenders.nsw.gov.au</a>.<br /> </p>
