Rovers will run three services down and back to link with the rail system to Sydney on Mondays to Fridays.

For Rovers CEO, Aaron Lewis, it signals the end of an ongoing lobby process that started back on 2005.

Obviously pleased with the approval to grant the service, Mr. Lewis cautioned residents they must “use it or lose it.”

He said the company will make approaches for the service to be extended to weekends, but there needs to be a genuine patronage through the week.

Rovers will receive two new coaches under the Growth Coaches Scheme with wheelchair access.

The new service provides the link that disappeared when Keans ceased its Sydney coach run in May last year.

Member for Hunter, Kerry Hickey, had fully supported Rovers bud to have the service started. He welcomed the news as a much needed service for the Cessnock City community.

He also urged those who can use the service, echoing Mr. Lewis’ use it or lose it caution.

The first service will leave the depot at 5.30am, followed by another at 7.15am and then 4.45pm.