Removal of VIC Camms Road level crossing fast tracked to construction

Another dangerous and congested level crossing along the busy Cranbourne line in Victoria will be permanently gone by 2024 – a year ahead of schedule – as the Camms Road level crossing removal project marks a new milestone. 

Major construction will begin early next year following the release of artist impressions for the new road bridge over the rail line at Camms Road. 

The road over rail design will help improve safety as well as traffic flow for the 12,000 motorists passing through this area daily. 

This project will deliver a road bridge that is wide and well-lit along with design elements and landscaping that will enhance the local area, providing benefits to pedestrians and cyclists as well. 

“Removing the Camms Road level crossing is one of many upgrades happening on the busy Cranbourne and Pakenham lines – used by more than 90,000 people a day – and brings us closer to making the Cranbourne line level crossing-free. 

“We’re getting on with the job and we’re thrilled to deliver yet another level crossing removal ahead of schedule, meaning passengers and the local community can enjoy the benefits sooner,” Acting Minister for Transport Infrastructure Ben Carroll said. 

Artist impression of the road bridge (source: Level Crossing Removal Project)

The local community is encouraged to view and leave feedback regarding the design of the project – which includes how people move through the area, landscaping, walking and cyclist connections as well as architectural finishes of the road bridge. 

If you want to provide feedback on this project, you can do so through the project page on Engage Victoria here. 

Over 137 trains pass through the level crossing each day and more trains are expected to run along the busy Cranbourne line as local communities grow, making the removal of this dangerous and congested level crossing vital to improve safety. 

“Our local community is one of the fastest growing in Victoria so it’s terrific to see these crucial upgrades continuing, improving safety and easing congestion for locals now and in the future,” Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards said. 

Project map (source: Level Crossing Removal Project)

About 18 properties have to be acquired for this project and the Level Crossing Removal Project team has attempted to get in touch with property owners and residents for the acquisition. The affected property owners and residents are going to be supported by the project team throughout the process. 

The road over rail design has been chosen for this project as it allows for the level crossing to be removed without impacting the nearby Cranbourne stabling yards. Disruptions to the stabling yard operations could also disrupt services on the rail line, leading to reduced number of services across Melbourne’s entire train network. 

This design option also provides the best solution for future proofing the area for possible transport upgrades on the Cranbourne line and to Cranbourne Station as well as rail extensions to Clyde that is currently under planning. 

In addition, the road bridge will ensure surrounding streets and paths are better connected – including Fairfield Street that provides access for eight bus services to Cranbourne Station every day. 

Early works on the project are expected to begin in the first half of next year. Landowners and residents don’t need to vacate the affected properties until mid-2022. 

The Camms Road level crossing removal is being delivered as part of the Cranbourne Line Upgrade, which includes: 

• Fully duplicating the track between Dandenong and Cranbourne 
• Removing the last three level crossings on the line 
• Construction of a new Merinda Park Station 

On the other hand, about 400 new and upgraded car parking spaces will be delivered at Cranbourne Station as part of the Car Parks for Commuters program. This project includes improved CCTV and lighting and more bicycle parking facilities. 

Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Level Crossing Removal Project (1, 2)