Major Level Crossing Removals Set to Improve Melbourne’s West

Melbourne’s western suburbs are on the brink of a transformative infrastructure upgrade, with four of the region’s most dangerous and congested level crossings set for removal. These projects, aimed at improving safety and easing traffic congestion in the rapidly growing areas of Melton and Truganina, mark a significant milestone in the Victorian Government’s commitment to modernising transport infrastructure.

Contracts have been awarded to leading construction and engineering consortia to tackle these critical projects. A $560 million contract has been secured by an alliance comprising John Holland, Kellogg Brown and Root (KBR), Metro Trains Melbourne, V/Line, and the Level Crossing Removal Project. This team will oversee the removal of level crossings at Coburns and Exford Roads in Melton by constructing a new rail bridge. Alongside this, the alliance will also deliver a brand new Melton Station, designed to serve as a key transport hub for the region.

In parallel, a $229 million contract has been awarded to another alliance, which includes Fulton Hogan, Metro Trains Melbourne, V/Line, and the Level Crossing Removal Project. Their focus will be on eliminating the level crossings at Ferris Road in Melton and Hopkins Road in Truganina, replacing them with new road bridges that will significantly improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents in these high-traffic areas.

These level crossing removals are part of the broader $650 million Melton Line Upgrade, a project designed to enhance rail services and accommodate the region’s growing population. A key feature of this upgrade is the introduction of larger nine-car VLocity trains, which will increase passenger capacity by 50 per cent. This enhancement is set to reduce overcrowding on trains and improve the overall travel experience for commuters.

The new Melton Station, a pivotal element of this upgrade, will feature two additional platforms to support Ballarat train services and short-starter services that begin and end at Melton. The station’s modern design includes an expansive pedestrian walkway, dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones, and a relocated bus interchange. To ensure accessibility, the station will have lifts and stairs connecting the platforms, along with passenger amenities such as an air-conditioned waiting room, a staffed ticket office, and enhanced security measures, including lighting and CCTV cameras.

Beyond the immediate benefits of improved safety and transport efficiency, these projects are also set to provide a significant boost to the local economy. With construction expected to begin later this year, the projects will create employment opportunities for 550 construction workers, many of whom bring experience from previous level crossing removals. This injection of jobs will support local communities and contribute to the economic growth of Melbourne’s western suburbs.

The final designs for the level crossing removals and the new Melton Station are anticipated to be released later this year, with the entire project expected to be completed by 2026. This timeline underscores the Victorian Government’s commitment to fast-tracking these essential infrastructure improvements.

Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson emphasised the importance of these projects, stating, “We said we’d get it done and we’re not wasting a minute – getting rid of four dangerous and congested level crossings on the Melton line and improving capacity for people in this growing area.”

As Melbourne’s west continues to expand, the removal of these level crossings and the construction of the new Melton Station will play a crucial role in ensuring that the region remains safe, connected, and accessible for all residents. These projects are not just about today; they are about building a better, more efficient transport network for the future.