It is full steam ahead as the historic Lithgow attraction the Zig Zag Railway is on track for a full recovery as debris has now been safely cleared.
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Residents and businesses of Lithgow will soon be able to welcome back visitors to the Zig Zag Railway, due to the NSW Government funded bushfire clean-up program.
Locals have been working to restore the attraction to its former glory, repairing significant infrastructure damage caused by the 2013 and 2019 bushfires.
"For more than seven years passionate volunteers have worked tirelessly to bring the Zig Zag Railway back to Lithgow and after their efforts were set back by the Gosper's fire at the end of last year, we were pleased to lend a hand and ensure safety," Bathurst MP Paul Toole said.
"I'm delighted to confirm contractor Laing O'Rourke has now safely removed burnt material, including asbestos, from damaged buildings and sheds left in the wake of last year's fires, providing volunteers and operators with a safe and clean slate to finish what they began.
"The efforts of community volunteers to restore the Zig Zag Railway to its former glory are inspiring, I thank them for their commitment and dedication to helping to ensure future generations of locals and tourists can enjoy this Blue Mountains icon for years to come."
Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Disaster Recovery John Barilaro said the NSW Government's bushfire clean-up program has cleared more than 3,300 fire destroyed properties across the state, giving communities the chance to start again.
"Bushfire communities are still doing it tough and while clearing fire destroyed homes and businesses is essential in helping locals on their journey to recovery and healing, clean-up of debris from the Zig Zag Railway in Lithgow is key to reviving the local economy.
"With the site now made safe and debris removed, this well-loved heritage attraction will be able to open its doors sooner, allowing people to return to their jobs and enticing tourists back to Lithgow to spend with the railway, local cafes, pubs and retailers."
Laing O'Rourke Project Director Paul Barrie said the Zig Zag Railway property, make safe and clean-up, was carried out by Laing O'Rourke teams working with Bathurst-based business, Robbie Lee Developments.
"Our teams have been working hand in hand with local businesses since February to clear properties right across the State, we have been part of some very special and unique clean- ups and this is definitely one of them," Mr Barrie said.
"The Zig Zag Railway is an important tourist attraction and the team of locals involved have done a fantastic job to remove hazardous materials and get the site ready for refurbishment and to accept visitors again soon."
Property and business owners can still register for the NSW Government bushfire clean-up program.
Owners wanting their bushfire impacted property cleared can register by calling 13 77 88 or visiting https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/register-opt-nsw-bushfire-clean.