MTS Heritage was engaged by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to provide heritage services to assist with the design and construction of a new pathway through the Glowworm Tunnel, located in Wollemi National Park.

The Glowworm Tunnel is a former railway tunnel that forms part of the Wolgan Railway Complex, a State significant heritage item. In addition to its heritage values, the Glowworm Tunnel is home to a significant glow-worm population and is a popular local tourist attraction.

Following the impact of bushfires, access through the tunnel was impacted. A new pathway was needed to enhance visitor safety. The challenge for NPWS was to deliver the infrastructure upgrade and provide the NSW community with an enriched natural and cultural heritage experience. Various options were considered, including a raised boardwalk, concrete path or to leave in its existing condition. There were substantial constraints to the design and construction options, including limitations on construction noise and light to minimise impacts on the glowworms, and minimising excavation to avoid impacting significant heritage elements.

Archaeological survey of the tunnel by MTS Heritage identified numerous heritage elements, including hand-cut linear side drains, hand-cut safety refuges, niches, prop holes and former hooks for lighting. The identified elements reflect the effort and skill required to construct the tunnel and demonstrate its former use as part of the former railway tunnel.

Preparation of a Statement of Heritage Impact Report by MTS Heritage identified that a brick-edged backfilled path was the most sympathetic design option, minimising its impact on the heritage significance of the tunnel and the Wolgan Railay Complex. The new pathway required minimal excavation and was positioned so that the existing inner hand cut drain could be exposed along its length and partially restored. Blond bricks bonded with matching mortar was also recommended to ensure the brick edging remains visually recessive.

With input from various specialists, the NPWS Blue Mountains Branch Walking Tracks Team constructed the new pathway by hand, without generators or power tools. The ultimate result has been the delivery of an exceptional experience for tens of thousands of visitors, and the protection of the natural and cultural heritage values of the Glowworm Tunnel for future generations.

A photographic archival recording of the tunnel works was prepared by MTS Heritage and input provided on heritage interpretation signs placed along its associated track.