RailCorp: Large Erecting Shop retained for continuing rail heritage purposes

"I refer to your email to the former Minister for Transport ... concerning Eveleigh Railway Workshops. The Hon David Campbell MP has asked me to respond

In progressing implementation of the Government's Sustainable Rail Heritage Asset Management Strategy, RailCorp has been reviewing options for a metropolitan heritage facility and has, with the concurrence of Redfern Waterloo Authority, factored in the Large Erecting Shop. This review has led to the RailCorp Board's recent endorsement of a plan for RailCorp to retain the building for rail heritage related uses.

RailCorp intends to use the Large Erecting Shop primarily to accommodate its heritage electric fleet, under the custodianship of the volunteer group Historic Electric Traction. RailCorp is also in discussion with 3801 Ltd about providing accommodation for that organisation's heritage train operations, which involve some items in the State's core heritage fleet, at the site.

As well, RailCorp is looking to provide some limited capability to undertake rolling stock restoration and skills training, in addition to a layover facility for heritage groups operating core fleet rolling stock.

RailCorp's plan for the Large Erecting Shop is consistent with the Friends of Eveleigh proposal that the workshop be retained for continuing rail heritage purposes. It is also part of a broader investment by the Government in both fixed and moveable State rail heritage assets across NSW.

Yours sincerely

Rob Mason

Chief Executive Officer