Congested crossing to be gone in 2018

The fast-tracked removal of the Buckley Street level crossing will see the dangerous crossing gone forever by the end of 2018 – one year ahead of schedule.

The project is fully funded, with a road underpass solution to lower Buckley Street under the rail line.

This solution is the least disruptive, will not require any private property acquisition, and will improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety in the local area.

It will keep the heritage station intact, and will also enhance the entire Essendon precinct through improved public transport connections and a new vibrant open space for the community to enjoy.

Key benefits

Traffic will finally be able to move freely along Buckley Street as drivers will no longer have to sit through delays at the boom gates, which are currently down for a staggering 78 minutes in the morning peak.

The road underpass does not preclude the Park and Puckle Street level crossings from being removed in future.

The project will also deliver improved local connections and enhanced access to Essendon station.

Traffic on local streets will be reduced as drivers will no longer rat-run to avoid the congested level crossing and local traffic will continue to freely access their homes, local shops and schools via the new service lanes.

Working together

The Level Crossing Removal Authority is working closely with Moonee Valley City Council, Public Transport Victoria, Metro Trains Melbourne, V/Line, Yarra Trams, bus operators and VicRoads to deliver the best possible project for the local community.

What's next?

Now we have our construction partner, work begins on the detailed design phase.

This involves further traffic studies, maximising connections to the surrounding shops, schools and services, and also improving public transport connections.

Together, we will be back out in the community seeking your feedback on:

• Open space opportunities such as lighting, pedestrian and bicycle access
• Traffic impacts during construction
• Improving public transport connections
• Your ideas to improve the local area
• Heritage station improvements
• Enhancing the Essendon station precinct area.

Community ideas

A Stakeholder Liaison Group has been established as part of the level crossing removal project. The group will play an important role in sharing project updates with the community, enabling a local perspective on project benefits and how we can mitigate impacts.

Come and see us with your ideas and questions from mid-May at our Information Hub at 22 Russell Street.

Project timeline

Mid to late 2017

• Design development, consultation and approvals

Late 2017

• Early works commence

Early 2018

• Major works commence