- Published:
- Monday 25 February 2019
Major works will soon start on the Metro Tunnel entrance of the South Yarra end of Australia’s biggest transport project, as part of an autumn construction blitz.
Metro Tunnel construction teams will be working around the clock to unearth the tunnel entrance which will untangle the City Loop to run more trains more often across Melbourne. To get this work done, buses will replace trains on the Cranbourne and Pakenham, Frankston and Sandringham lines.
The Metro Tunnel will allow for 45 per cent more passengers across these three lines, who are set to save up to 50 minutes a day travelling where they need to go.
Construction works will happen across the metropolitan and regional train network from 1-23 April, with most of it taking place during the holiday period when less people use the network. Alongside the Cranbourne and Pakenham, Frankston and Sandringham lines, buses will also replace trains along Glen Waverley, Mernda, Gippsland, Geelong/Warrnambool lines during this period.
Gippsland passengers, who have been most impacted by upgrades along Melbourne’s busiest train line, will again receive free travel.
Recognising the impact of works on Victorians heading to the footy during this period, the free tram zone will be extended for affected games to the MCG during this period. AFL fans who use Richmond Station should allow a extra time to get to matches at the MCG during April, with some lines not operating through Richmond station. The free tram zone will also be extended for people attending affected AFL games at the MCG through April.
The Sandringham line will reopen for Easter Monday and V/Line trains will be back for Geelong supporters to get to the big game, when a crowd of 75,000 is expected to descend on the MCG.
The autumn closures will also allow construction of other significant upgrades on the Ballarat line and more level crossing removal works in Carrum and Reservoir.
The works will add up to 60 minutes travel time for some Metro and V/Line rail passengers, who are encouraged to plan ahead by visiting bigbuild.vic.gov.au.
Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Whether it’s removing level crossings, getting on with the Metro Tunnel or upgrading regional rail lines – we thank passengers for their patience as we get on with these essential works.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan
“Crews will work around the clock to keep building the Metro Tunnel, while also preparing our network for bigger, better trains and delivering improvements for regional passengers.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne
“I urge passengers during this busy time to check and stay informed about changes to the network, and plan ahead to avoid long delays.”