What is a rail access pad?

A rail access pad is a designated location along the rail corridor, where work crews can safely drive vehicles and machinery directly onto the track for maintenance or project works.

Rail access pads are placed strategically along rail corridors throughout the metropolitan network, so work crews can enter the rail corridor with heavy machinery for scheduled and emergency maintenance.

Why a rail access pad in this location?

Level crossings have historically been used as safe and convenient access points to the rail corridor for work crews.

With 85 level crossings now removed across the rail network, there are fewer access points. The rail access pad at Como Parade West, Parkdale has been established to replace the rail access lost as a result of the removal of the Warrigal Road, Mentone and Parkers Road, Parkdale level crossings in July 2024.

What else will this area be used for?

The rail land in this section of Como Parade West will continue to be used for storing rail materials.