Upgrade of Rail Heritage Centre - final stage
10 November 2009
The upgrade of the facilities at the Rail Heritage Centre at Thirlmere, are continuing to progress with the successful tender for the second and final stage by Robson Civil Projects Pty Ltd and Stephen Edwards Constructions Pty Ltd being announced at the official opening of the Centre's new Roundhouse on 9 November.
Robsons and Stephen Edwards have a proven track record for delivering on time and to budget from the construction of the Roundhouse and relocation of the turntable in Stage 1. They commenced work on the final stage on Monday 9 November with the Grand Opening of the Rail Heritage Centre planned for early in 2011.
Developments on site throughout the coming year include the construction of the exhibition and link building, exhibition fitout and the completion of landscaping. When complete, the Rail Heritage Centre will attract a diverse audience, now and into the future, through innovative public programs, creative exhibitions and unique function venues.
Construction activity at the Rail Heritage Centre has proven to be of great value to the region with more than 370 people being employed by over 50 contractors and sub-contractors, 20 of these contractors being from the local area. A group of 14 apprentices also contributed to getting the site to where it is today. The upgrade involves a partnership between RailCorp's Office of Rail Heritage and the NSW Rail Transport Museum, and collaboration with the Powerhouse Museum and Wollondilly Shire Council.
Work on the Rail Heritage Centre forms a vital part of the NSW Government's Rail Heritage Strategy which will ensure the ongoing conservation of items of significance in the State's rail heritage.
Through renewing our rail heritage legacy in this way the benefits for the broader community are generated through increased employment and tourism dollars to the region.
On site developments can be followed closely on the brand new website www.railheritagecentre.com.au.
Media contact: RailCorp Public Affairs (02) 8202 2228