People in Melbourne’s north are getting their first look at the new Moreland and Coburg Stations today as part of a project that will remove four level crossings and see the area transformed.
Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan and Member for Pascoe Vale Lizzie Blandthorn at Coburg Station to reveal early station designs as part of the Bell to Moreland Level Crossing Removal Project.
The new stations will be safer, more accessible and user friendly while preserving and integrating existing heritage station buildings and reflecting the vibrancy and diversity of the local area.
They will deliver upgraded, accessible facilities with improved cycling facilities and better walking and cycling paths linking trams and buses and more seating.
The project will revitalise the local area, create new open space and be a catalyst for further enhancements. Construction starts this year and these level crossings will be gone for good in 2020.
Whilst the rail line is in an extremely narrow corridor, no compulsory acquisition of homes or businesses will be required. A Voluntary Purchase Scheme will be offered to homes impacted, similar to what was offered on the Caulfield to Dandenong level crossing removal project.
Innovative construction methodology will see more than 1000 people working around the clock in a three-month major construction blitz next year, as much of the work gets done.
A turnback facility at Anstey will allow trains to continue to run between Anstey and the city during this blitz – meaning about half the people who use the Upfield line will be unaffected by the works. Workers will be building the state-of-the-art stations and almost two kilometres of elevated rail removing four level crossings at Bell, Reynard and Munro Streets, Coburg and Moreland Road in Brunswick.
About 68,000 vehicles pass through these four level crossings each day, with the boom gates down for up to 25 per cent of the morning peak. Since 2005 there have been at least 24 collisions or near misses including one fatality at Bell Street in 2005.
Locals are encouraged to visit your.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au by 15 June to have your say and find out more.
Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Not only are we making sure this dangerous and congested level crossing is gone for good – we’re delivering modern, safe and accessible stations with more open space for locals to enjoy.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan
“Getting rid of these level crossings not only makes this community safer but supports local jobs in our northern suburbs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Pascoe Vale Lizzie Blandthorn
“As we build the new stations, the community have a great opportunity to help shape the open space and areas around the stations – so I encourage all locals to get online and have their say.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020