The Andrews Labor Government is one step closer to removing every dangerous and congested level crossing along the Pakenham Line with final designs released for Webb Street and a brand-new Narre Warren Station.
The 875-metre elevated rail bridge will remove the level crossing and increase safety, ease congestion and allow more trains, more often – changing the way people move around in the southeast for years to come.
Around 13,200 vehicles use the Webb Street level crossing each day, with the boom gates down for up to 40 minutes of the morning peak when up to 25 trains pass through. With the Metro Tunnel opening in 2025 meaning more trains, more often, the boom gates would be down for significant periods throughout the day if not removed.
Since 2012 there have been at least 19 near misses recorded at the level crossing, making its removal crucial to improving safety.
Community feedback has helped shape the project, which will deliver better accessibility and facilities for the new Narre Warren Station and forecourt. Upgrades include elevated platforms with access via lifts and stairs, seating and improved lighting, and a secure Parkiteer bicycle cage, bicycle hoops and landscaping.
The new station design highlights the history of the area and features a wave-shaped exterior surrounding the central staircases, while new bus bays on Webb Street will be longer and wider to ensure traffic isn’t blocked.
Shared pedestrian and cycle paths will connect the station to Narre Warren village, and a signalised pedestrian crossing will be installed on Webb Street to create better connections in the area.
Construction is scheduled to start this year, with all 22 level crossings on the Pakenham Line gone for good by 2025 – 13 are already a thing of the past.
The works are part of the Labor Government’s $15 billion upgrade to the Pakenham line, which includes new high-capacity trains and the Metro Tunnel Project.
For more information visit levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan
“We’re getting rid of this dangerous and congested level crossing at Webb Street and we’ll delivering a state-of-the-art, modern station for the entire community to enjoy for years to come.”
"Melbourne’s busiest rail line, the Pakenham line, will be level-crossing free by 2025 to ease congestion and make local roads safer – changing the way people live, work and travel.”
Quote attributable to Member for Narre Warren North Luke Donnellan
“We can’t wait to see the station precinct take shape, which will deliver huge benefits for passengers including making travel easier, safer and more comfortable.”
Quote attributable to Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas
“Webb Street is one of the most dangerous and congested level crossings on the Pakenham line with 19 near misses in the last decade. It causes delays to thousands of drivers every day. It’s got to go.”
Reviewed 23 August 2022