Deer Park soon to be level crossing free

We're removing the Mt Derrimut Road level crossing

On behalf of the Victorian Government, we're getting rid of the dangerous and congested level crossing at Mt Derrimut Road, Deer Park.

We'll remove the level crossing by elevating the rail line over the road, and we'll build a new Deer Park Station with bicycle facilities and landscaping.

Elevating the rail line will increase space below the tracks, making it safer and easier for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to move around.

Construction will start in late 2021 and the level crossing will be removed in 2024. We'll also remove the nearby level crossings at Fitzgerald Road in Ardeer and Robinsons Road in Deer Park by 2023.

Why does the level crossing need to be removed?

• There have been 15 boom gate collisions and 15 near misses at the crossing since 2017
• The boom gates can be down for up to 45% of the morning peak when up to 37 trains pass through the crossing
• Delays can be caused for the 23,000 vehicles that pass through the crossing each day
• Future plans to increase trains on the Geelong and Ballarat lines, meaning more boom gate down time.

Project benefits

• Improved safety for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists
• A more reliable road network
• Better connections and travel times
• Paving the way for future transport upgrades

Deer Park Station precinct

Why a rail bridge?

We have undertaken extensive technical investigations to confirm that a rail bridge is the best solution for the area. Road options were also investigated but the rail bridge will provide the most benefits for commuters, road users, pedestrians and cyclists.

The rail over road option was chosen because it will:

• Improve connections for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists moving through the area.
• Reduce rail and road disruptions during construction.
• Create a more reliable road network allowing vehicles to pass through the area without stopping at boom gates.
• Cause less construction impacts to nearby businesses and residents.
• Enhance the local area through a new landscaped open space beneath the rail bridge.
• Allow for future upgrades of the Geelong and Ballarat lines.

A new Deer Park Station precinct

The new Deer Park Station will be built slightly west of the existing level crossing, away from Mt Derrimut Road.

It will include additional bicycle facilities and the elevated tracks will allow more space for commuters to move around.

The new station will be accessible from north and south of the rail line, which will improve connections for residents on both sides of the tracks.

We'll elevate the new platforms and make them accessible by stairs, lifts and ramps, making it easier to access trains. Passengers will have direct access to the platforms, and the existing walkway and safety gates across the tracks will be demolished.

The tracks will also move slightly north to allow for future upgrades of the Geelong and Ballarat lines.

Carparks for Commuters

More car parking at Deer Park Station

The Victorian Government has committed to the delivery of 150 new and upgraded car parks at Deer Park Station as part of the Car Parks for Commuters program.

Understanding the site

We've already undertaken some investigative works in the area including:

• Geotechnical investigations: testing water and ground conditions
• Service investigations: locating water, sewerage, electricity, gas, and telecommunication service pipes
• Survey investigations: identifying local topography and landmarks
• Environmental studies: investigating local flora, fauna, and nearby environmental features

We'll undertake further investigations including noise monitoring and surveying to assist with further developing the design and construction approach.

You may notice some machinery and workers in the area while we complete these works.

Other projects in your area

Fitzgerald Road in Ardeer and Robinsons Road in Deer Park have been fast-tracked for removal in 2023.

• Fitzgerald Road: a new road bridge will be constructed over the rail line.
• Robinsons Road: an underpass will be built for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.

When all 3 level crossings are gone, the area will be safer, less congested and easier to get around.

Planning approvals

Planning approval for this project will proceed under Clause 52.03 – Level Crossing Removal Project of the Brimbank and Melton Planning Schemes.

LXRP is seeking community feedback on a range of planning matters, including:

• the proposed project boundary
• construction-related environmental, heritage and amenity impacts
• native vegetation
• management of potential impacts.

The formal consultation period is now open, and we would like to provide you with the chance to submit your feedback.

All feedback received will be included in a consultation summary report. This report will inform the Minister for Planning’s assessment of the project under Clause 52.03. Planning submissions can be made online on the Engage Victoria website.

All submissions must be received by 11.59pm Friday 7 May.

Project timeline