Major construction on one of the biggest engineering projects ever undertaken in Melbourne’s east is accelerating as we build the 1.3km rail trench.

We are removing the dangerous and congested Union Road and Mont Albert Road level crossings.

During 2022 we’ll relocate underground major services; electricity, gas, sewer and drainage, often working 24/7 to complete

as much of this work now so that there is less disruption in the lead up to the important end of year trading period.

We encourage everyone to shop local and continue to support your traders while these works take place.

What we’re doing

In July, works will ramp up again with an intense construction period that will involve lane and road closures on both Mont Albert Road and Union Road, as well as a two-week closure of the rail line.

In the first half of 2023 we’ll dig the rail trench and build the new Union Station over several months, with the major phase of construction completed in winter.

Disruptions

Some properties may experience service disruptions during these works. We’ll provide advance notice to impacted residents.

Scan or click the code above to view detours.

Key construction dates

1 July - 15 August

• Union Road closed at level crossing
• Detours in place

8 - 25 July

• Mont Albert Road closed at level crossing
• Detours in place
• 24 hour works
• Buses replace trains

July and August

• Further lane and road closures

2023

• Construction blitz to dig trench and remove level crossings
• Both level crossings gone for good
• New Union Station open

Timeline above is subject to change.

Union Road

Union Road will be closed at the level crossing1 July for bridge works, reopening 15 August, with lane closures in August and September.

While the road is closed we will install foundations under the road and move major services so we can dig the trench next year.

Allow extra time and plan ahead. Thank you for your patience.

Mont Albert Road

Mont Albert Road will be closed at the level crossing 8 July for bridge works, reopening 25 July and then closed for one week in August with lane closures outside these times while we install foundations under the road and move major services.

Please plan ahead and allow extra time.

Coffees and cranes - View our works

You're invited along to our viewing platforms to see the progress on site, at Union and Mont Albert roads.

Watch the engineering feats being achieved as 60-tonne bridge beams are lifted into place by enormous cranes ranging between 350 and 750-tonne capacity, or see the retaining wall piling along the rail corridor.

To receive more information, register for our email updates and stay tuned for further details.

Stay informed

• There will be lane closures and detours in local streets during major works, and outside these times, as described in the main map
• Buses replace trains from 8.30pm on 8 July to the last service on 24 July on sections of the Belgrave and Lilydale lines. For full details visit our disruptions page for full details.
• Please register to receive disruption information via text message. Simply text UMA to 0459 067 028 to sign up for alerts for traffic and construction impacts
• View all upcoming disruptions and get the latest project updates by subscribing to our email updates today.

Pedestrian detours - How to get around during the works

Union Road

The pedestrian underpass at Surrey Hills Station is open and can be used to access shops either side of the rail line. Pedestrian access to properties and businesses will be maintained at all times.

If you’re coming to the shopping precinct, most of the on-street parking is still available and the Coles basement car park is free for the first two hours.

Mont Albert Road

If you’re coming to the Hamilton Street shopping precinct, most of the on-street parking is still available and the pedestrian underpass at Mont Albert Station is open and can be used to access the shops.