City Notices: Essential Travel Updates and Public Health Advisories for Sunday, 15 March

Major Traffic Alert: Great Western Highway Closure and Transport Updates

Transport for NSW has issued an urgent notice regarding the extended closure of the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass. Due to a major geotechnical failure at Mitchell’s Causeway, also known as the Convict Bridge, the highway is expected to remain closed in both directions for at least three months. This heritage structure, which has served the region since 1832, was recently found to have significant stress fractures, making it unsafe for all vehicle traffic.

Starting today, Sunday, 15 March, Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink have activated a revised transport schedule to support the community. These changes are designed to keep the Central West and Blue Mountains connected during the remediation period. Key service updates include:

• Additional train services operating between Bathurst and Mount Victoria to accommodate displaced motorists.
• Free turn-up-and-go accessible coach services running daily between Bathurst and Katoomba.
• Updated weekday timetables which are available for viewing via the official Trip Planner as of this morning.

Motorists are advised to use the Bells Line of Road or Darling Causeway as alternate routes. Please plan for significant delays, as travel times may increase by up to two hours during peak periods and high-volume weekend traffic.

Health Advisory: Measles Alert for Northern and Western Sydney

NSW Health is urging residents in northern and western Sydney to remain vigilant following a confirmed local case of measles where the source of infection is unknown. This suggests the virus may be circulating within the community. There have been 27 confirmed cases of measles in New South Wales since the beginning of 2026.

Public health officials have identified a specific exposure location at the St Vincent’s Hospital Emergency Department on Friday, 13 March, between 11:20 AM and 7:00 PM. Residents are advised to:

• Monitor for early symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, typically followed by a red, blotchy rash.
• Check vaccination records; the MMR vaccine is free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn't already received two doses.
• Call ahead to their GP or local emergency department before visiting if they suspect they have symptoms, to prevent further transmission.

Community Notice: Final Day of the Seniors Festival

Today, Sunday, 15 March, marks the official conclusion of the 2026 Seniors Festival. The City of Sydney encourages residents to take advantage of the final day of free and discounted events happening across the local government area. The festival has celebrated the contributions of older adults with various activities focused on active and healthy ageing. Several community centres and libraries will host final closing ceremonies and social gatherings today.

Urban Planning: Feedback Invited for 'The Sydney Plan'

The City of Sydney has published its formal submissions regarding the draft 'Sydney Plan,' a long-term strategic vision for the city’s growth. These documents include recommendations for sustainable and well-serviced communities, as well as specific feedback on the proposed light rail extension from Parramatta to Green Square. Residents are encouraged to review the draft Statewide Policy for Industrial Lands and provide their feedback through the official council portal to help shape the future of central Sydney’s infrastructure and public domains.