New Report Confirms Elevated Line Will Reduce Train Noise

The Andrews Labor Government’s solution to remove nine level crossings on the Cranbourne Pakenham line will reduce noise for local residents in Melbourne’s south east.

Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan, today released the Level Crossing Removal Authority’s Preliminary Noise Report for the Cranbourne to Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project.

The report shows every feature of the new line – stations, track, wheels and horns – will be quieter than the current rail line, with an overall audible decrease in noise from the new project compared to existing conditions.

The addition of noise and privacy screening, as well as directly fixing the track to the structure using continuously welded rail, will have a big impact on reducing noise.

The report also makes clear that the noise modelling used is deliberately conservative, meaning the actual noise affects are likely to be even lower than those indicated.

The release of the report follows the start of works on the $1.6 billion project over the weekend and the Victorian Budget 2016/17 on Wednesday, which provided all the funds necessary to build it.

The Victorian Budget also fully funds 65 new high-capacity trains that will run on the Cranbourne Pakenham line, as well as the $10.9 billion Metro Tunnel, which will allow more trains in and out of the city.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan

"This report confirms the elevated line will reduce train noise for local residents day and night."

"This $1.6 billion project will create greener, safer, quieter neighbourhoods, with less traffic, more trains and more open space."

"These level crossings are some of our worst. They clog roads, stop us running more trains and put lives at risk every single day.”

“After years of excuses, we're getting it done."