Loop Line upgrade reaches a new milestone on 22 July 2026
Five level crossings on the Loop Line between Buxton and Colo Vale will return to use on Wednesday 22 July 2026.
Transport Heritage NSW will mark the reactivation at 11.00am on 22 July 2026 at Coates Road Level Crossing in Hill Top.
The five crossings are East Parade, Buxton South; Balmoral Village Railway Parade, Balmoral South; Coates Road, Hill Top; and Fitzroy Street, Hill Top.
Andrew Moritz, chief executive of Transport Heritage NSW, will attend with Wollondilly MP Judy Hannan and Wingecarribee Shire mayor Jesse Fitzpatrick.
Construction vehicles and ballast trains
First, the reactivated level crossings will let rail construction vehicles move along the upgraded section of line.
Later, ballast trains will also use the route between Buxton and Colo Vale as the Loop Line Upgrade Project nears completion.
Once construction finishes later in 2026, Transport Heritage NSW plans track testing and crew training before future heritage train operations begin.
Crews have carried out safety work at each crossing, including better visibility and improved road surface conditions.
Meanwhile, three new pedestrian level crossings are being installed at key locations along the corridor.
New road rules at five crossings
From 22 July 2026, motorists at each reactivated crossing must stop at the new signs, check for approaching trains and proceed only when safe.
Those road rules will be enforceable, and fines may apply to drivers who ignore the signs.
At Coates Road in Hill Top, the 22 July 2026 event will include the official activation and the unveiling of new level-crossing signage.
Visitors will also be able to see rail construction activity on the upgraded Loop Line and access interview opportunities with Moritz, Hannan and Fitzpatrick.
According to Transport Heritage NSW, the Loop Line Upgrade Project will restore the historic railway between Buxton and Colo Vale.
The agency also describes the project as a major investment in the visitor economy of Wollondilly and the Southern Highlands.
Further information on the project is available at thnsw.com.au/loop-line.
