Critical Missing Link Receives $1.5 Million in Funding

Glenbrook, NSW 

For years, local cycling and walking advocates have been campaigning to reopen the Glenbrook Tunnel in the Blue Mountains of NSW, just west of Sydney. 

The 660 metre tunnel was constructed in 1891 to bypass the Lapstone Zig Zag and make it easier for trains to reach the Blue Mountains. It was closed in 1913, before being used for mushroom growing and then as mustard gas storage in World War II. After the war, it returned to being used for growing mushrooms, but is still closed to the public.  

There has been a push to reopen the trail for cycling and walking to help bring connectivity to the area. If it was to open it would connect Glenbrook and Lapstone villages with Leonay, Emu Plains and Penrith. 

In late February 2021 Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith, announced the NSW Government will provide $1.5 million for the restoration of the Tunnel. 

While there is no commitment to open the trail to cycling just yet, the announcement of restoring the tunnel is one step closer.  

“While the tunnel is relatively short, it is the connectivity between the local area that will open the doors for bike riders,” commented Kim Lavender, Bicycle NSW Communications Manager. 

You can see more information and support the campaign at this page: https://www.facebook.com/glenbrooktunnel