Securing access for emergency vehicles in Moree

We have listened to feedback relating to the potential for delays to emergency services travelling east to west if a freight train were to breakdown and block level crossings in Moree and are working to address this important issue.

Our project designers are working with key stakeholders including Moree Plains Shire Council, Transport for NSW and NSW Fire and Rescue, to confirm their access requirements if level crossings in Moree are blocked.

The preferred solution we’re investigating is to provide access between Oak Street and Morton Street, under the Mehi River rail bridge and Newell Highway (the area is shown in the image above).

We are developing designs for the rail bridge, in partnership with Transport for NSW, to provide a 4m clearance under the highway, the minimum required to achieve ‘general fire appliance’, or fire truck, access under the bridge.

The design of the Mehi River rail bridge will be finalised during the detailed design phase and will be higher than the current bridge.

The path under the Newell Highway currently has a 2.9m clearance and Inland Rail is proposing to carry out earthworks to achieve the 4m height. Talks are underway with Transport for NSW – the asset owner of the Highway infrastructure – to refine the details of this approach.

The design will also ensure that the proposed vehicle access road is kept separate from the current pedestrian footpath.

The project team is also investigating longer term public amenity, access and revegetation options for the broader Mehi bridge once construction has finished. This is part of our commitment to leave a positive legacy for the local community.

IMAGE: The Newell Highway and rail bridge crossing the Mehi River north of Moree, showing the current pedestrian path and the location of the proposed emergency vehicle access road