On the 21st of January 2016 Transport for NSW announced a major step forward in the revitalisation of Newcastle, with registrations of interest now open for companies to design and construct Newcastle Light Rail. Newcastle’s new light rail line will run from Wickham to Pacific Park, delivering a modern and reliable transport service for the community and kick starting revitalisation of the CBD.

Transport for NSW said the NSW Government was committed to delivering a new light rail network for the region, with construction expected to start later this year. “We’re now calling on qualified organisations to register their interest for the design and construction tender for light rail. 

From here we’ll develop a shortlist and expect to award a formal tender by the middle of the year,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said. “This is an important step in the project to make sure the best people are on the ground to get on with the job. “We are committed to getting light rail in Newcastle right.

To do this, we need the right people to design and construct Newcastle’s light rail - on-time, on-budget and with minimal disruption to the community. “Transport for NSW is full steam ahead on this project, and expects to start consultation with the community in the coming months as part of the light rail planning approvals process.” The registrations of interest period is expected to close on 12 February 2016. 

The NSW Government will prepare a shortlist of respondents who will then be invited to tender. The Fixed Infrastructure Contract is expected to be awarded in mid-2016.