We've been listening

Since February this year, we've been talking and listening to the community and industry about the project and discussing the best way to remove the level crossing at Abbotts Road. A big thank you to everyone who has already taken the time to provide us feedback.

Last month we hosted an industry forum for local businesses and industry representatives to about the 5 possible options for removing the crossing. We sought feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of each option and any potential impacts to businesses. We are currently analysing the feedback and compiling a consultation report, with support from Capire Consulting who facilitated the workshop. Most participants told us they do not support any option that involves closing Abbotts Road. Once this report is finalised, it will be available on our website.

Since commencing community consultation we've gained a stronger appreciation of the issues concerning local business, in particular the potential impact to the surrounding area if Abbotts Road was closed to traffic. Because of this response we are now working to get greater feedback on the alternative 4 options.

Over the coming month we will continue to gather information and feedback on what is important to you, your business and local industry to help determine the best way to remove the Abbotts Road level crossing.

We are consulting on all possible options to remove the level crossing on Abbotts Road.

Planning and consultation is underway to remove the level crossing at Abbotts Road in Dandenong South.

Removing the crossing will:

• Improve safety for drivers, commuters and pedestrians
• Make it easier to travel around Melbourne whether you’re a train user, pedestrian, cyclist or driver
• Create jobs during construction

What will our consultation involve?

Phase 1 'Tell us what is important to you' (March to May 2016)

Phase 2 'What do you think of our options (July to August 2016)

Phase 3 'This is our proposed solution' (October to November 2016)

Industry forum update

The industry forum was a great first step to gather information that will guide us in developing feasible options and selecting a preferred solution for the removal of the Abbotts Road level crossing. The presentation from the Industry Forum is now available on our website.

We are currently analysing the feedback and compiling a consultation report, with support from Capire Consulting who facilitated the workshop. Early results show that most participants do not support any option that involves closing Abbotts Road. Once this report is finalised, it will be available on our website.

Business Liaison Group

We sought nominations at the forum for a Business Liaison Group. The group will have a balanced representation of the local industry and will assist LXRP to provide input on the development and selection of design solutions for the Abbotts Road project.

What options are being considered?

There 5 design options to remove the Abbotts Road level crossing:

1. Lowering the rail line under the road
2. Building a road bridge over the rail line
3. Building a rail bridge over the road
4. Lowering the road under the rail line
5. Create a new road link over the rail line by connecting Pound Road West and Remington Drive and closing Abbotts Road

How do we select a design?

The selection of a design to remove each level crossing depends on the unique characteristics of each site, the benefits and impacts of each option and feedback from the community and stakeholders, such as local councils and businesses.

Site characteristics

Each site has its own unique characteristics that must be considered when developing a recommended design, including the surrounding geography and environment, road, public transport, cycling and walking connections, safety, value for money, future development in the area, potential land acquisition and how the area is used now and into the future to ensure an ongoing thriving community.

Option benefits and impacts

Each option’s benefits and issues need to be considered based on the site’s specific characteristics, such as local geography, groundwater and surrounding infrastructure and services.

Community and stakeholder feedback

We are doing a thorough engagement process that considers all stakeholder views, whether they are from people directly adjacent to the crossing or from the wider industry. Feedback will be used to help assess and refine design options.

What's next?

Community drop-in Session

We are currently consulting on all possible options to remove the level crossing on Abbotts Road. During this first phase of consultation we will gather information on what is important to local businesses, industry and road users.

The next phase will focus on seeking feedback on a short list of feasible options. Once we have analysed that feedback, we will present the final solution to the community and refine the design with input from directly affected stakeholders

Drop in any time during these sessions, to talk to the project team, ask any questions and tell us what you think about the various options to remove the Abbotts Road level crossing.

Thursday 28 April 12 noon to 2pm
Nissan Casting 209-235 Frankston-
Dandenong Rd, Dandenong South

Saturday 7 May from 10am to 12 noon
Dandenong Civic Centre Level 2,
225 Lonsdale St Dandenong

Once the feedback from these sessions has been assessed and the various options analysed, a shortlist of options will be announced to the community by the end of May.