The removal of the dangerous and congested level crossing on Melton Highway in Sydenham is one step closer.

The Member for Sydenham Natalie Hutchins announced today that expressions of interest (EOI) for the design and construction of a road bridge over the rail line at Melton Highway, Sydenham, are being sought.

The new bridge will carry vehicles safely over the train line, removing the dangerous crossing that frustrates thousands of motorists every day.

Member for Sydenham, Natalie Hutchins has stated “The boom gates on Melton Highway are a daily frustration for motorists, with boom gates down nearly a quarter of the morning peak. Building the bridge and removing the level crossing will reduce congestion, increase safety and pave the way for a massive job-creating expansion at Watergardens Town Centre.”

Melton Highway level crossing is one of Melbourne’s worst, with boom gates down for up to 24 minutes in the two-hour morning peak.

Removing it will improve traffic flow and make the area safer for locals, motorists and train passengers.

The Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) has undertaken extensive community consultation about the level crossing removal, and the design is now being refined in response to the feedback received.

Community consultation will continue on key local issues, including traffic and pedestrian movements, access to residential and commercial areas, and urban design of the new road bridge.

A working group will also be established to develop options to increase commuter car parking around Watergardens Station.

The group will be chaired by the Member for Sydenham, Natalie Hutchins and include representatives from PTV, VicTrack, Brimbank Council and QIC and report to the Minister by the end of the year. Natalie Hutchins said “We’re also establishing a working group to look at how we can increase parking at Watergardens Station, to make it easier to drive to the station and catch the train.”

The EOI will close in late June, after which LXRA will evaluate submissions and call tenders from shortlisted contractors. Construction expected to be completed in late 2018.

Details are available on the Tenders Vic website at www.tenders.vic.gov.au

“We’re removing Melton Highway level crossing and 49 others across Melbourne, to get people home safer and sooner every day.”