Early concept designs for the new Narre Warren Station elevated rail bridge in Victoria have been revealed, with the bridge to replace the level crossing at Webb Street.
Removing this level crossing will improve safety, relieve congestion on Webb Street, and allow more trains to run on the Pakenham line, more often.
Around 13,200 vehicles use the 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.
Since 2012, there have been at least 19 near misses recorded at the Webb Street level crossing.
Importantly, this elevated rail design takes into consideration the area’s unique set of characteristics, and will deliver the best outcome for the community, including improved connections within the Narre Warren precinct, by featuring a more integrated transport hub.
The modern Narre Warren Station will have two new elevated platforms with access via lifts and stairs, and the platforms will feature improved shelter and lighting.
The station will be safer and more accessible, with modern facilities such as additional bus stops, shared use paths, Parkiteer cages and bicycle parking hoops, and landscaping throughout the station precinct.
Victorian Member for Narre Warren North, Luke Donnellan, said, “It’s exciting that Webb Street is one of the additional sites added to the list of level crossings to be removed. I know the community can’t wait to see it gone and to see our new station take shape.
“I know how important the removal of this level crossing is to our community, and now everyone has the opportunity to share their thoughts and help shape the final design before construction starts.”
Construction on the project is scheduled to start in 2022 and will be completed by 2025.
It follows the removal of the Clyde Road level crossing last month – the 12th level crossing to become a thing of the past on the Pakenham line, with ten more to go to make it boom-gate free by 2025.
The works are part of the Victorian Government’s $15 billion upgrade to the Pakenham line, which also includes new high-capacity trains and the Metro Tunnel Project, which will allow for more trains, more often in Melbourne’s fast-growing south-east.
The Victorian Government is getting rid of 85 level crossings across Melbourne by 2025, with 58 now gone for good.
With the project kicking off, the community has been asked to provide feedback on what they enjoy about the area, how they move around the station precinct and the early concept designs.
Visit the online hub at Engage Victoria to leave feedback on the concept designs.