Work to create Sydney’s version of New York’s High Line has begun, with plans to transform a disused rail track, originally used for transporting freight, into a reinvigorated public space for leisure.

The High Line is a public park built on the former rail line that ran above the streets of New York and is the inspiration for the Australian Sydney project.

The Goods Line in Sydney stretches for 500m (1,640ft) and is split into two sections – the Goods Line North and the Goods Line South. Work began in March on the northern section of the track, which is hoped to be completed by November 2014, to coincide with the opening of the track-side Dr Chau Chak Wing Business School.

The project, designed by the Australia-based Aspect Studios and Choi Ropiha Fighera (CHROFI), will reinterpret the original rail line, underbridge and signal box. The track will now feature a variety of spaces that will cater to leisure, offering scope for gigs, pop-up events, green spaces and recreation. The line will also improve both pedestrian and cycle access from Railway Square through to Darling Harbour.

The Goods Line South will be redeveloped following the completion of the northern section, with plans to go out to tender later this year and construction due to start in early 2015. Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority is leading the government-funded project, while a feasibility study is also being conducted on the possibility of extending the Goods Line further.