Preston and Bell stations now open

Landscaping works now in progress

In May we removed the dangerous and congested level crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road. Then in September, we opened the brand-new stations at Bell and Preston.

After 3 months of the Mernda Line operating on a single track to passengers, it was an exciting milestone to welcome passengers back to the vibrant, state-of-the-art Preston and Bell station precincts. There were giveaways at the stations on the first day to welcome passengers – including liquorice all sorts at Preston!

Passengers can now use the new modern facilities, with waiting rooms providing protection from the weather, secure bike storage for passengers riding to the stations as well as lifts and stairs to platforms. There are amazing city views from the platforms too.

We are looking forward to opening the station car parks at both stations by the end of October and the new open space in 2023.

Landscaping works are underway

The team is now working on 3 MCGs of new open space under the 2km rail line in Preston, which will be ready next year. The design of the open space was developed in the planning stages of the project in consultation with the community including through the Preston Open Space Advisory Panel. See the map below for details on what landscaping we are delivering.

Oakover Green

The new Oakover Green open space has been designed as a multipurpose area with lots of opportunities to relax and interact with nature. The area will include:

• a playground for active play
• landscaped gardens
• seating areas
• a yarning circle that has been developed with Wurundjeri artists.

Bell Station area

The new Bell Station design reflects Preston’s rich history with post-war roof tops, and references to the local art and culture scene. This can be seen through:

• the building’s abstract pitched roof
• the pink and purple coloured glazing
• the new amphitheatre on the eastern side of the station

These features connect the station to the arts precinct with Darebin Arts Centre a short stroll away.

The new Bell Station is easily accessible by foot or bike, with lockable bike storage for passengers. The station is also water and energy efficient, with sustainable features such as:

• solar panels
• rain water reuse
• LED lighting
• environmentally sustainable materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Bruce Street area

With the walking and cycling paths connecting all areas in the new open space and native planting used throughout, the area at Bruce Street provides both an active and passive space. Features include:

• seating to relax and take respite
• BBQ facilities for social gatherings
• a playground for kids
• all-ages fitness facilities.

Preston Station area

Providing a welcoming gateway to Preston, the design of the new Preston Station makes it safer and a more convenient gateway for locals and visitors. The bright coloured facade features a barcode to reflect the vivid colours of the produce found at Preston Market.

The new station precinct features:

• expansive open space
• new and safer connections to popular local destinations
• improved cycling and walking paths
• solar panels
• rain water reuse
• LED lighting
• environmentally sustainable materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

North of Murray Road

The area north of Murray Road will be a multi-use area. The continuous use of native planting will create a story across the whole revitalised area.

There will be:

• planting that will include native grasses and flowering varieties
• landscaping that brings colour and enhances local biodiversity
• seating and natural play elements with a parkour theme.

Indigenous co-design at Oakover Green

In the design stage of the Preston Level Crossing Removal Project the team worked in collaboration with the Wurundjeri People as the Traditional Custodians of the land to co-design some elements of the project.

In the Oakover Green open space – between Oakover Road and Bell Station – there are a number of elements that represent the role of women in traditional Indigenous life.

One of these elements include a formalised yarning circle which celebrate women and promote opportunities for cultural learning and knowledge sharing.

Your new stations

We hope everyone has had a chance to check out your new stations at Bell and Preston.

If you haven't managed to get there yet, check out these photos.

Welcome to Preston Station

Thanks to everyone who joined our welcome celebration at Preston Station on Saturday 10 September. We’re so glad people can once again access Preston Market and High Street by train.

The Gentleman's Barbershop

The Gentleman’s Barbershop first opened its doors to the Preston community in December 2021. The team has recently added a cafe to their shop.

With a combined experience of about 20 years in barbering, Zee and brother Hussein manage and run the business - so you can enjoy a fresh look and a delicious brew.

“The main thing that drew me to the barbering industry was the combination of precision skills and the opportunity to meet and interact with people," Zee says. "I love helping people feel good about how they look."

The team at The Gentleman’s Barbershop is passionate about their work. "We love creating a relaxing atmosphere in our shop so customers not only get a great look, but can indulge in some time for themselves," Zee says.

Aside from Preston being a beautiful suburb in Melbourne, Zee specifically loved the location across the road from the train station, making it easily accessible to members of the community. "Preston is such a vibrant place. There is a real mix of traders and a variety of delicious restaurants. The locals are friendly, and I knew the barber shop would be a perfect addition to this location."

9 Blanch Street, Preston

Thank you!

On behalf of the Preston Level Crossing Removal Project, we would like to thank you for your ongoing patience and cooperation during construction.