A fast-rail network linking Sydney with regional centres is being promised by the state government, if elected next year.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian says it’s about giving people greater choice about where they live and work.

Four potential routes have already been identified and the government is enlisting the help of a UK expert to identify the best of these routes.

The network could slash travel times by up to 75 per cent.

But the Premier is denying the announcement comes with an eye on the March election.

NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance tells Chris Smith it’s about “opening up regional New South Wales in a way we’ve never seen before”.

He says the project will also look at upgrades to existing lines.

“Fast rail as a concept is looking at the existing infrastructure and potential upgrades to existing lines so that you can get trains up to 200km per hour.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro tells Ben Fordham it’s understandable if the public “have little confidence” in the government’s ability to get the job done.

“But I think we’ve moved a long way as a nation that we are at a point when we are looking at the infrastructure of the next generation, very fast rial or faster rail is definitely on the agenda.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview with Mr Barilaro 

Image: NSW Government