New Englanders are invited to have a say on proposed NSW TrainLink coach timetable changes that are due to come into effect in mid-2026 to better meet the needs of the travelling public.
NSW TrainLink is the state’s long distance regional public transport provider. Across the NSW TrainLink network there are currently 571 coach services each week across 39 routes, with over 420,000 passenger journeys made each year.
Its coach network services an area including Armidale, Wee Waa, Moree, Inverell, Tamworth, Glen Innes, Tenterfield and Walcha, connecting communities and providing links to rail services and larger centres.
The proposed changes to NSW TrainLink coach services include adjusted timetables to meet passenger needs, new routes, additional services on some existing routes, new stops to improve local access and connections to rail and reduced travel times.
A new route is proposed to operate on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday between Armidale and Port Macquarie and return, providing an Armidale to North Coast connection for the first time. At Wauchope the coach connects with rail services giving access to and from Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, Gold Coast and Brisbane.
A new Monday to Friday day-return service is proposed between Tamworth and Newcastle, via rail interchange at Muswellbrook.
The popular route between Tamworth and Dubbo and return would increase in frequency to three times per week.
In Armidale, there would be a new CBD stop for services to and from Tenterfield and Inverell, giving passengers closer access to retail, health and education facilities.
The planned changes are based on extensive community and stakeholder feedback from a range of sources including regular customer and operator feedback, and the NSW Bus Taskforce. The proposed coach timetable would not impact train times or services.
Following public consultation, a final service plan will be developed and coach operators will be able to apply for new NSW TrainLink contracts that are proposed to take effect from mid 2026.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison encouraged New Englanders to have their say on the proposed changes.
“The proposed NSW TrainLink coach plan will deliver improved connections to strategic centres and major cities.
“This will lead to better transport integration with other modes such as train, bus and plane so that members of the community are better able to access vital services including health, education and employment.
“Improved NSW TrainLink coach services also allow community members to stay connected with family and friends and enjoy entertainment and recreation in major centres, so there are numerous wellbeing benefits.
“We know that the NSW TrainLink coach network particularly helps some of the most disadvantaged in our society, including those in rural and remote areas and Aboriginal communities, who often have little or no access to other forms of affordable, accessible transport.
“I encourage everyone to provide feedback so we can best plan for future need and make sure people can get where they need to go when they need to travel.”
Community members can find details of the proposed routes and provide feedback at haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/trainlink-coach-network-review until Friday, 14 February.
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