City of Newcastle Council has welcomed a $12 billion commitment by the NSW Government to build the state’s next generation of trains in the Hunter region.
The investment will deliver a new state-owned manufacturing facility that will anchor more than 30 years of passenger train building in the region, generating hundreds of jobs and boosting the greater Newcastle economy.
The site is expected to employ up to 780 workers in construction and 550 ongoing jobs in the facility and supply chains.
Lord Mayor, Gavin Morris said the decision will reinvigorate the Hunter’s great train building legacy.
“The announcement of a $12 billion investment over 15 years is great news for Newcastle and the Hunter, delivering an economic and employment windfall that will be felt for decades to come,” he said.
“Our city has a long and proud history of producing world-class rolling stock, supported by one of the most skilled manufacturing workforces in the country.
“This commitment gives our region the opportunity to put those skills back to work, ensuring Newcastle remains at the heart of Australian manufacturing.
“By backing local industry, we’re creating pathways for apprentices, supporting small businesses throughout the supply chain and giving manufacturers the confidence to grow.
“Newcastle has continually adapted as our economy has evolved, but our greatest asset has always been our people.
“By investing locally, the NSW Government is recognising the capability of our skilled workforce and helping to secure the next chapter of manufacturing in the Hunter.”
Two potential sites have been identified – a former coal mine at Teralba and the Broadmeadow Locomotive Depot near where the original Tangara fleet was manufactured between 1986 and 1998.
Site selection will be subject to due diligence and stakeholder consultation. In the case of Teralba, it will also be subject to further engagement with Glencore and partners over potential site acquisition, the NSW Government confirmed in a statement.
