Three Melbourne train lines, three CBD streets and the West Gate Freeway all set for significant delays as Metro Tunnel and West Gate Tunnel works ramp up.
The Victorian government is intensifying efforts to prepare for the opening of two major infrastructure projects—the West Gate Tunnel and the Metro Tunnel—both slated to commence operations next year.
These initiatives are poised to reduce travel times and alleviate congestion across Melbourne significantly, however, the government has announced both projects will cause significant delays across key Melbourne arterials and train lines before their completion.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Metro Tunnel enters trial operations
The Metro Tunnel project has progressed into the trial operations phase, marking a critical step toward its anticipated opening in 2025. This phase involves comprehensive testing by station staff, operators, maintenance workers, and drivers, who are rehearsing a variety of scenarios to ensure seamless passenger service upon launch. To facilitate these essential preparations, weekend disruptions are scheduled on the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines from late November to mid-December. Additionally, between January 2 and January 11, 2025, buses will replace trains on sections of the Sunbury Line, and Cranbourne and Pakenham line passengers will need to interchange at Caulfield Station for Frankston Line services. Normal train services are expected to resume in time for the Australian Open.
Progress on underground stations
Construction has been completed on three of the five new underground stations: Arden, Parkville, and Anzac. Work continues on the two central business district (CBD) stations, Town Hall and State Library, with significant milestones anticipated in the coming months. From late January, Flinders Street will experience lane reductions between Russell and Swanston streets westbound and will be closed between Swanston and Elizabeth streets until the end of 2025 to accommodate ongoing construction activities.
West Gate Tunnel and associated works
In Melbourne’s west, annual maintenance on the West Gate Bridge is scheduled from December 26 to January 4, necessitating the closure of three citybound lanes and leaving two lanes operational. Motorists should plan for delays of up to 30 minutes. Concurrently, major road surfacing on the West Gate Freeway between Millers Road and the West Gate Bridge will commence on January 6 and continue for two months. This work includes lane and ramp closures to facilitate asphalting and the construction of tunnel ventilation structures.
Enhancements in the south-east and north
In the south-east, the Pakenham Roads Upgrade is progressing, with efforts focused on widening the ramp from McGregor Road onto the Princes Freeway to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The citybound ramp will be closed from January 14 until early March. Meanwhile, in the north, sections of the Hurstbridge Line will be serviced by buses in February and March as crews work to extend the rail tunnel in Watsonia. This extension is part of the major works connecting the M80 Ring Road to the North East Link tunnels and the upgraded Eastern Freeway.
The state’s initiative to remove dangerous and congested level crossings continues, with significant activities planned across ten sites. An eight-day construction blitz in December will see buses replacing trains on sections of the Sunbury and Bendigo lines, and Watsons Road will be closed until late 2025 to facilitate the construction of a new road bridge in Diggers Rest. January will also witness intensified efforts to remove four level crossings in Melton and the construction of a new Melton Station.
The transformative impact of the Metro Tunnel
The Metro Tunnel is set to revolutionize Melbourne’s public transport landscape by creating a new end-to-end rail line from Sunbury in the west to Cranbourne and Pakenham in the south-east. This project includes the addition of five new underground stations—Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac—each designed with modern amenities and accessibility features. The introduction of High Capacity Metro Trains (HCMTs) will further enhance the commuting experience, offering increased passenger capacity and improved comfort.
By untangling the City Loop, the Metro Tunnel will enable more frequent and reliable services across the network, effectively doubling the size of Melbourne’s underground rail system. This expansion is crucial as the city anticipates significant population growth, ensuring that the public transport system can accommodate future demand.
Community engagement and future developments
The Victorian Government acknowledges the temporary inconveniences these construction activities may cause and expresses gratitude for the public’s patience. These short-term disruptions are essential to deliver long-term benefits, including safer and faster journeys across the city. Commuters are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing works and plan their travel accordingly by visiting the Big Build website at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/map.
As Melbourne continues to evolve, projects like the Metro Tunnel and the Suburban Rail Loop are pivotal in enhancing the city’s liveability. By providing more efficient and accessible public transport options, these initiatives aim to reclaim Melbourne’s status as the world’s most liveable city, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for all residents.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson highlighted the significance of the upcoming projects, describing the West Gate Tunnel and Metro Tunnel as transformative for Victoria’s transport network. “It’s going to be huge summer of works as crews prepare to open the West Gate Tunnel and Metro Tunnel next year – two vital projects for Victoria, that will reduce travel times and congestion and improve connections to every corner of Australia’s biggest city.”
Echoing this sentiment, Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said, “We are getting on delivering vital works that will help create faster and safer journeys.” Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams also acknowledged the temporary disruptions caused by construction and expressed gratitude to the public for their patience, stating, “We thank people for their patience as we get on with these crucial works that will deliver safer and faster journeys. Remember to plan your journey ahead of time.”
To find out more and to check before you travel, visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/map.
