The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will open one of Sydney’s most historic gems, St James Station Tunnels, to the public following its restoration and revitalisation.
The public will be able to explore the hidden parts below one of Sydney’s busiest train stations, which was once utilised as an air raid shelter and RAAF control room during the Second World War.
Constructed in the 1920s as part of John Bradfield’s grand transport vision for Sydney, these long forgotten “ghost” tunnels are being re-imagined as a tourist attraction.
Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport Rob Stokes said these precious relics have long been hidden underneath our feet, and it’s high time the public were able to benefit.
“Subterranean Sydney will be a secret no longer,” Mr Stokes said.
“This is an incredible opportunity to bring Sydney’s ghost tunnels to life and share our city’s forgotten past with a new generation.”
Minister for Transport, Veterans and Western Sydney David Elliott said with concept designs and selected early safety works complete, public access to the disused tunnels will soon be a reality, with work already underway to facilitate exciting and authentic guided tours of the southern tunnel, supported by innovative visitor experiences.
“As Veterans and Transport Minister, it is always a pleasure when my portfolios intersect. These tunnels are not only a gateway to Sydney’s transport history, but our war efforts and to this day bear the signatures of soldiers,” Mr Elliott said.
“The tour is expected to include an immersive experience which covers John Bradfield’s 1920s vision for Sydney’s transport, the construction of the City Circle as well as the experience of those who so valiantly served to defend their country in the Second World War.”
Transport Asset Holding Entity (TAHE) CEO Benedicte Colin said it would be a great opportunity for visitors to the tunnels to become urban explorers, venturing through the long-hidden platform behind the St James concourse to the tunnels which run under Hyde Park.
“The project supports TAHE’s social responsibility objectives, and this innovative approach will see the value of this otherwise disused asset unlocked,” Ms Colin said.
Transport for NSW Chief Operations Officer Howard Collins said teams have been working hard to remediate and renovate this almost forgotten historic piece of NSW infrastructure.
“Like any area that has been unused for many years we need to ensure we not only have a safe and practical plan, but also look after the heritage aspects which will make them so interesting for visitors,” Mr Collins said.
The official opening and commencement of tours, initially in the southern tunnel, is expected to take place in late 2023.