Transport Heritage NSW was joined by NSW Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan MP and Mayor of Wingecarribee Shire Jesse Fitzpatrick for the re-opening of five level crossings between Buxton and Colo Vale on Wednesday 22 July 2026, more than 40 years after they were last active.

The level crossings have received significant improvements as part of the Loop Line Upgrade Project, a $21.7 million investment in the historic rail corridor stretching from Sydney’s Southwest to the Southern Highlands.​

“I’m really excited because they’re not only reopened, but they’ve actually been improved” said NSW Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan MP.

“This gives people better access across the line when they are not in use and there’s no trains running, and it warns them when trains are running to be careful.”

“The level crossings will give great clarity to residents,” said Wingecarribee Mayor Jesse Fitzpatrick. “They’re very safe now and accessible.”

“It’s another major milestone towards finishing, so residents are really excited.”

The crossings that have been reactivated are at the following locations:

·       East Parade (Buxton South) Level Crossing

·       Balmoral Village Level Crossing

·       Railway Parade (Balmoral South) Level Crossing

·       Coates Road (Hill Top) Level Crossing

·       Fitzroy Street (Hill Top) Level Crossing  

Works undertaken on the crossings include resurfacing the level crossing approaches, new track panels to ensure safe passage of both road and rail traffic, new road signage and line markings, and improved sight lines for better visibility for both drivers and train crews.

These improvements bring the level crossings into compliance with Australian Standards and provide residents along the line with improved access across the historic rail corridor. In addition, THNSW is currently installing three pedestrian crossings at key points along the line to better connect communities on either side of the corridor.

The opening of these level crossings will enable THNSW to begin the final track packages, including delivery of ballast slated for later this year. Construction is on target to be wrapped up by the end of the year, with testing and training of crews commencing once the line is certified.

With the crossings now active, road rules at these locations have changed. Drivers will need to ensure they follow all new signs and road rules for level crossings. This means vehicles must stop at the signs and check for trains, before proceeding through the crossing. Fines will be enforceable at these crossings.

For more details on the project, visit thnsw.com.au/loop-line