A visualisation of the light rail system.

Sydney Transport will completely overhaul its 60-year-old bus network ahead of construction for the planned light rail on the city’s busiest street, George Street.

As of today, Transport NSW has released a new redesigned bus network which will see new routes, timetables and bus stops changing.

The NSW government’s decision to bring forward the proposed construction, in an attempt to complete the low impact works before the Christmas and Boxing Day period, will result in a significant adjustment for the 600,000 daily commuters who work in, or pass through, the CBD.

During the overhaul, Elizabeth, Castlereagh, Park, Druitt, Clarence and York Street will take priority over new bus routes with no buses operating on George Street during and after construction of the South East Light Rail, Sydney Transport confirmed.

Transport minister Andrew Constance said “Sydney will be changed forever”, offering advice to those heading into the city tomorrow: “Try and get to work earlier if you can. Try to leave work later, or leave work earlier. Particularly over the next three to four weeks.”

It is estimated that 45% fewer buses will be travelling through Sydney’s CBD.

Transport NSW will attempt to make the transition for commuters as seamless as possible, with staff and signage positioned throughout the business district.

Information regarding trip planners, departure times and updated timetables can be found at www.transportnsw.info.

Construction for the light rail is expected to take nine months and is scheduled to be fully operational in 2018.

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