“We have always been clear about our intention to modify the network to accommodate these new trains,” the spokesperson said. 

A background statement provided by Transport for NSW said the work required to update the trainline was “minor” and there were no plans to replace whole sections of track. 

However, Transport for NSW’s Review of Environmental Factors currently on public display says that shutdown of the train line could take place for up to 12 days at a time between Newnes Junction and Lithgow. 

“It is anticipated that up to 10 pre-existing rail possessions would be utilised over the two-year construction period,” the review states. 

“This would typically include shutdown periods of 48 hours over a weekend period; however, five of the 10 possession periods may extend for 12 days in the area between Newnes Junction Station and Lithgow Station. This would involve five day closures of one line on both sides of a weekend possession period.”

The review says buses will replace trains during those periods.

Lithgow Station will also be subject to construction works to lengthen platforms. This, the report says, is not expected to impact customer use of the station.

That will likely not be the end of disruptions to Lithgow’s train line.  

The impact of additional work required to modify the Ten Tunnel Deviations between Lithgow and Mount Victoria for the new fleet is unknown. Transport for NSW has not finalised their plans, which will be dealt with in a separate planning approval process. 

MP Paul Toole said he had confirmed with Minister for Transport Andrew Constance the new fleet will service Lithgow. 

"I have spoken to the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance and he has confirmed that the network will be modified to accommodate these new wider trains."

“The Lithgow community can look forward to additional trains with more space and improved comfort.”