Removal of two level crossings at Ringwood VIC a step closer
Two dangerous and congested level crossings are set to be removed and a new train station is to be built at Ringwood, with the Victorian Government releasing designs for the projects.
The level crossings at Bedford Road and Dublin Road are going to be removed by replacing them with rail trenches – providing a road over rail route – that will enable more services to run on the Lilydale and Belgrave lines while improving travel times.
“We’re removing every level crossing in Ringwood to ease congestion and make travelling on road and rail safer for drivers in Melbourne’s east.
“Removing the level crossings will pave the way for more trains by making the lines level crossing free from the city to Ferntree Gully and Lilydale – delivering significant benefits to locals,” Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said.
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Artist impression of a level crossing free Bedford Road (source: Victoria's Big Build)
Around 23,000 vehicles use the level crossing at Bedford Road and Dublin Road daily, with the boom gates down for up to 23 minutes during the morning peak at each crossing.
Taking community feedback into consideration, the updated designs for the new Ringwood East Station will now include an additional entrance along with a car park that is closer to the station precinct, making it easier for train passengers to park and catch a train.
“The upgrades at the new station will include two entrances, as well as better car parking and cycling connections – making it easier for locals to catch the train,” Member for Ringwood Dustin Halse said.
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Artist impression of the new Ringwood East Station (source: Victoria's Big Build)
The architecture of the new station will complement the local village feel of Ringwood East, incorporating landscaping that features native plants, shrubs and trees. The Ringwood East Station will also include new lifts, stairs, lighting, upgraded pedestrian and cycling paths in the area, and a 460-space upgraded commuter car park.
In addition, a new walking and cycling path has been added to the design for the Bedford Road project. The new path will connect the 19.2-kilometre Heathmont Rail Train to Bedford Park alongside the Belgrave rail line.
“This vital project will reduce congestion in Ringwood and Ringwood East, making our community safer for locals whether travelling by car, bike, bus, train or on foot,” Member for Burwood Will Fowles said.
Construction on the Bedford Road and Dublin Road project – including the new Ringwood East Station – is anticipated to commence next year, with the two dangerous and congested level crossings gone for good in 2025.
Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Victoria’s Big Build – Level Crossing Removal Project
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