- Published:
- Thursday 23 November 2023
The Allan Labor Government is getting on with making Melton level crossing free by fast-tracking four level crossing removals in Melton and Truganina, providing the community with safer road and rail transport.
Removing boom gates at gates Coburns Road, Exford Road and Ferris Road in Melton, and at Hopkins Road in Truganina, will unclog the roads for more than 73,000 vehicles each day – with the boom gates down and causing traffic frustration for up to 28 minutes in the morning peak as 16 trains pass along the corridor.
A new modern and accessible Melton Station will also be built to cater for one of Australia’s fastest-growing communities, paving the way for future Improvements to the line and increased train capacity.
Engineering assessments have confirmed the level crossings at Ferris and Hopkins roads will be removed by building road bridges over the rail line, while rail bridges will be built over Coburns and Exford roads.
The design solutions will minimise road and rail disruptions during construction, create safer connections for road users and allow for future transport upgrades to support the growing population.
The community can now provide feedback on how they move around the area which, together with technical and engineering requirements, will inform the project’s concept designs to be released next year.
Major construction is scheduled to begin in 2024, with the new station open and level crossings gone in 2026 – two years ahead of schedule.
Online surveys and information about in-person and online events are available at engage.vic.gov.au.
Quote attributable to Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson
“Getting rid of these four dangerous and congested level crossings will make Melton level crossing free by 2026 and enable locals to get where they need to go more safely with fewer delays.”
Quote attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie
“Community feedback is an important part of all level crossing removal projects and we’re asking Melton locals to help shape their new station precinct, which will deliver significant benefits to this growing community, including a modern and accessible Melton Station.”
Quote attributable to Member for Kororoit Luba Grigorovitch
“Getting rid of the level crossing at Hopkins Road, Truganina will reduce congestion and improve access in this busy area, and I encourage community members to have their say on this important project.”