The state government is ramping up efforts to remove four dangerous and congested level crossings in Preston with a construction blitz said to take place along the Mernda line.
Crews are preparing to build a new two-kilometre rail bridge as the crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road are removed, cutting congestion and making the roads safer for the more than 82,000 motorists who pass through each day – where the boom gates are down for up to 40 per cent of the morning peak.
Works will be carried out until the last service on Tuesday, 11 May, buses will replace trains on the Mernda line between Clifton Hill and Reservoir as the construction crew works inside the rail corridor, installing overhead wiring structures and carrying out signaling, track, and drainage works.
The existing station buildings at Bell and Preston will be demolished and temporary station facilities installed to reduce disruption for passengers while the new, premium stations are built – and passengers will start using the temporary stations when trains return to the line on Wednesday 12 May.
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Bell Street will remain open to traffic during the construction, although there will be some local road closures and pedestrian access changes in the area.
Member for Northcote Kat Theophanous said, “The new stations at Bell and Preston will be modern, safe, accessible and staffed from the first to the last train. And once the rail is elevated, there will be a huge amount of open space for everyone to enjoy. A big thank you to locals for their patience during construction.”
As works are underway in Preston, the community is encouraged to get involved in the ‘GO Preston… Shop Local’ campaign ahead of Mother’s Day, celebrating the creativity and diversity of local small businesses. Shoppers at participating stores can scan a QR code for their chance to win a local shopping voucher.
The four level crossings at Preston will be gone, and the new stations open by the end of 2022, with the open space ready for the community to enjoy in 2023.
