- Published:
- Wednesday 18 July 2018
Locals have had their first glimpse of plans for the improved Ballan Station, which will be transformed as part of the half-a-billion-dollar Stage One Ballarat Line Upgrade.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack and Victorian Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan today unveiled designs of the upgrade, which will include an additional platform and new pedestrian overpass, an improved bus bay layout and new bicycle storage facilities.
“Accessibility will be a critical part of the upgrade, with new lifts allowing all passengers to easily access both platforms, and ramp access to platforms from the car parks,” Mr McCormack said.
“The upgrade will include a car park with a drop-off zone on the south side of the station, and the existing station car park on Atkinson Street will be modified to integrate with the improved bus bay, making it easier for passengers to park and ride.”
Improved security, lighting and landscaping will also be included in the upgrade.
Victorian Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan said the revamp will maintain the heritage value of the existing station building and will be integrated with its existing look and feel, which is integral to the Ballan township.
“We’ve listened to the local community when designing the upgraded Ballan Station, and added features locals told us were important to them, all while maintaining the historic aesthetic of the station,” Ms Allan said.
The track at Ballan Station will be duplicated as part of the upgrade, with a 4.5-kilometre passing loop being built from west of the Ingliston Road level crossing towards Old Melbourne Road. This will provide more space for trains to pass each other, to allow extra services and boost reliability.
“Ballan Station has been an integral part of the community for more than 130 years and these vital upgrades will ensure passengers can continue to use the station well into the future.”
Construction on the Ballan passing loop began during a works blitz in April, while work on the station upgrade will begin later this year. Stage One of the Ballarat Line Upgrade is expected to be completed in late 2019.
“The Ballarat Line Upgrade will enable more frequent and reliable services for the growing communities along the line, including Ballan,” Ms Allan said.
Rail Projects Victoria is seeking feedback from the local community on tree planting and landscaping around the station.
To view artist’s impressions of the upgraded Ballan Station or take part in the survey visit regionalrailrevival.vic.gov.au/ballarat
The Ballarat Line Upgrade is part of the $1.75 billion Regional Rail Revival, which will upgrade every regional passenger train line in Victoria, creating more than 1,000 jobs. The Regional Rail Revival is a joint initiative of the Australian and Victorian governments, with the Australian Government providing $1.6 billion in funding and the Victorian Government $150 million.
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