The public transport advocacy group has long sought additional train services between Maitland and Singleton, and improved public transport connectivity.

At a recent meeting in Singleton, Transport for NSW officials updated community and Singleton Council representatives on future transport plans and investigations into the feasibility of additional passenger services.

Transport for NSW is also considering adding at least three weekday passenger train services to Singleton, with more arrivals from, and departures to Newcastle late morning, mid-afternoon, and evening.

“This follows a coordinated campaign by the NSW Government, Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen and Singleton Council, working together with the community,” Two More Trains for Singleton spokesperson Martin Fallding said.

“We were pleased with progress made during discussions with Director Rail Service Planning Nikolai Prince and other Transport for NSW officials.

“They share our goal of greater service frequency between Singleton and Newcastle and we look forward to working with them to make this a reality.

“Additional services will especially benefit school and university students, travel for medical appointments, and Sydney connections.

“Singleton is only one hour by train from Newcastle CBD.

“And, this represents a significant step in addressing the deficiency of services to Singleton.”

Mr Fallding said it was a huge step forward for the community.

“It will encourage people to use trains who have never considered this option before,” he explained.

“The proposed additional services are subject to finalising a business case and approval from the NSW Government, and will not impact on existing Hunter Line passenger and coal services.

“The business case for more services should be completed urgently so additional services can be introduced as soon as possible, including on weekends.

“Additional matters such as a seven-day week timetable, improved connections to Sydney trains and Newcastle buses, and Opal ticketing on regional train services remain on the agenda for future attention by the NSW Government.”