Orange-Bathurst coach connection for second Bullet train under consideration

The new service, likely to depart Bathurst for Sydney about 7.30am each weekday and return about 7pm, is due to start running before the end of the year.

There would also be weekend services, including stops planned for Tarana and Rydal.

A Transport for NSW spokeswoman said an Orange coach connection was being considered.

"NSW TrainLink is currently investigating options to connect Orange customers with the second new Bathurst Bullet service in both directions," she said.

The Orange Rail Action Group said it was hopeful for a connection to the new train service following a meeting of statewide rail action groups with NSW Trainlink executives in Goulburn last week.

Currently a coach leaves Orange at 4.55am Monday-Friday to connect with the existing Bullet train which departs Bathurst for Sydney at 5.46am.

The return services arrives in Bathurst at 9.34pm and is met by a coach with arrives in Orange at 10.45pm.

An additional service would give Orange passengers more flexibility about how long they could spend in Sydney.

Meanwhile Orange's hopes for a direct morning train service to Sydney now seem to hinge on the opening of a train maintenance facility in Dubbo in 2023.

The Transport for NSW spokeswoman said the Dubbo centre would create new options.

"The NSW Government is investing $2.8 billion in a new regional rail fleet and Dubbo maintenance facility which will open up new opportunities for new routes and new services," she said.