Two Melbourne train lines have closed as the Victorian government launches 24/7 construction to build new road underpass.
The Victorian government has started intensive level crossing removal works on Webster Street for Melbourne train lines, set to continue until late next week.
Major construction begins as the state prepares for increased train services. The Webster Street level crossing removal project represents a significant infrastructure upgrade for Melbourne’s southeast.
Workers will operate on the Melbourne train level crossings around the clock during August. The project includes building a new road underpass beneath the railway line.
Melbourne train station works
- 24/7 construction during rail shutdown periods
- New road underpass connecting Princes Highway-Lonsdale Street to Cheltenham and Hammond roads
- Utility and service relocations
- Piling and excavation works for the underpass
- Signalling and overhead wiring upgrades
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August travel changes
- Buses replace trains between Dandenong, Cranbourne and Berwick from Monday 4 August until 8.30pm, Friday 8 August.
- Buses replace trains between Westall, Cranbourne and East Pakenham from 8.30pm, Friday 8 August until last service, Sunday 10 August.
- Buses replace trains between Westall, Cranbourne and Berwick fro, first service, Monday 11 August to last service, Wednesday 13 August.
The Melbourne train project prepares the rail network for the Metro Tunnel opening. More trains will run more frequently once the tunnel becomes operational later this year.
Construction teams will focus on the rail corridor between Cheltenham Road and Frankston-Dandenong Road. The intensive works require complete rail shutdowns during specific periods.
Train services on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines face disruption. Services stop from Friday 1 August until the last service, 2am Thursday 14 August.
Workers will complete underground excavation during the rail closure. Signalling equipment and overhead power lines require extensive modifications.
The Webster Street level crossing currently creates traffic delays. The new underpass will eliminate these delays permanently.
Heavy machinery occasionally requires Webster Street closure. These closures last up to 10 minutes while equipment enters the rail corridor.
Traffic management systems will assist drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. Access to local businesses and homes remains available throughout construction.
Standard working hours apply outside rail shutdown periods. Teams work 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 1pm Saturday.
The project forms part of the state’s broader level crossing removal programme. Dozens of dangerous crossings have been eliminated across Melbourne train lines.
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