More level crossings are set to be removed along the Pakenham train line thanks to the Andrews Government’s latest announcement that an additional 10 crossings will be gone by 2025.
Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP, was pleased to announce that the Webb Street level crossing would be amongst 10 more crossings to be removed and will also deliver a brand-new Narre Warren Station with modern facilities for the community.
Currently, boom gates at the Webb Street crossing are down for up to 40 minutes during the morning peak.
Initial technical assessments indicate that a hybrid design will be used with a lowering of Webb Street and building of a rail bridge over the road which will minimise disruptions and mean the rail bridge will not need to be as long. Further engineering and community engagement will be undertaken.
The Webb Street level crossing removal, in addition to Station Street and Brunt Road in Beaconsfield, will see the entire Pakenham line free of level crossings by 2025. Removing the crossings will allow more trains more often on one of Melbourne’s busiest lines and keep traffic moving in this fast-growing area.
The level crossing removals are part of the State Government’s $15 billion upgrade of the Pakenham line and will provide time savings and increase safety for public transport users, pedestrians and motorists.
The Andrews Government has now committed to removing a total of 85 dangerous and congested level crossings by 2025, while also delivering the Metro Tunnel, the Suburban Rail Loop, and high-capacity metro trains on the Pakenham-Cranbourne line.
Site investigations at Webb Street will start in coming months and more information about the new level crossing removals is available at levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South, Gary Maas MP:
“Removing these level crossings will see no boom gates on the Pakenham line while delivering a modern Narre Warren Station and increased safety and investment for our local community.”
“A level crossing free Pakenham line should allow for more services more regularly to help commuters get where they need to go faster.”
“Many have been wanting the Webb Street crossing to go. Now there is a commitment and plans are underway to reduce the traffic delays and cars backing up to Princes Highway.”
“I know many locals can’t wait for this bottleneck to be cleared and for Narre Warren Station to get the upgrade it deserves.”
10 August 2021