General News
6 June, 2024
No trains to run on Warrnambool line for 10 weeks
A CONSTRUCTION blitz this winter will complete major construction of the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication and level crossing upgrades as part of Stage Two of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade, with disruption to the Warrnambool Line
From Saturday, June 15 until Sunday, August 25, coaches will replace trains between Geelong and Warrnambool while more than 1000 workers and contractors finish upgrades to Marshall and South Geelong stations, more than 8km of track duplication and the removal of the two level crossings.
A Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) spokesperson said passengers will be able to look forward to safer and more accessible stations south of Geelong, with congestion expected to be reduced for motorists
“To remove the congested level crossing for good, the Fyans Street roundabout will be closed from Wednesday, June 12 until Monday, August 26 as crews move the 2000 tonne rail bridge into place, build the bridge embankments and realign the intersection under the rail bridge,” the spokesperson said.
“Surf Coast Highway will also be closed at the level crossing from Wednesday, July 31 until Saturday, August 17 to remove the level crossing and complete road resurfacing.
“There will also be rolling level crossing closures between South Geelong and Grovedale to enable track duplication to take place at Yarra Street, Swanston Street, Barwon Terrace, Reserve Road and Marshalltown Road.
“Upgrades to train detection technology at the last of 53 public level crossings on the Warrnambool Line will also be completed while trains aren’t running, to enable the introduction of modern and accessible VLocity trains.”
The DTP spokesperson said the disruption will allow workers and contractors to undertake the works safely.
“Axle counters are being installed at the last 17 level crossings, along with boom gates, bells and flashing lights at six of these crossings making them compatible with VLocity trains as part of Stage Two of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade,” the spokesperson said.
The works are part of Victoria’s Big Build, a state-wide works program comprising more than180 road and rail projects.