18 May 2020

We’re starting works to build a brand new Merinda Park Station

The Victorian Government is investing more than $1 billion to duplicate the Cranbourne Line, remove 4 level crossings and build a new Merinda Park Station – improving safety, reducing congestion and allowing for more trains more often.

Early works are now underway to get ready for major construction in mid-2020.

We'll rebuild the station using a staged approach, designed to minimise disruptions. This will involve keeping the existing track and platform operational while we build the 2 new platforms on either side.

You'll be kept informed with regular updates as we move through the early works phase and into major construction.

Improving transport across the south east

Rail upgrades are essential to meet the needs of fast-growing areas in Melbourne’s south east.

Bigger trains, new track and more frequent, reliable services will combine to make room for 121,000 extra peak hour passengers each week across the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines.

Merinda Park Station is being rebuilt with 2 new platforms and a better layout. It’s part of works to duplicate track and allow for trains every 10 minutes on the Cranbourne Line.

Car park changes at Merinda Park Station

Before major construction can begin, we first need to establish a site compound. This compound, which provides a base for workers, materials and equipment, needs to be located right next to the rail line. For that reason, we will need to use an area of the station car park for sheds and storage. Fencing will go up around the compound to keep the site secure, and everyone safe.

To make sure the number of parking spaces at Merinda Park stays the same during construction, we’ll create a temporary car park behind the existing one.

Pedestrian changes

During construction, there will be changes to pedestrian paths at Merinda Park Station. You will notice pedestrian detour signage at the station going up in the coming weeks. All temporary pedestrian pathways are accessible for those with a disability.

Evans Road, Lyndhurst on track to reopen this year

Major works are continuing on the level crossing removal project at Evans Road, Lyndhurst which is on track to reopen later this year.

This May, 32m long bridge beams will be installed forming the new road bridge over the Cranbourne Line.

Extra parking for Lynbrook Station

As part of the Car Parks for Commuters Fund, 135 extra car spaces will be built at Lynbrook Station. Works will kick off later this year.

This will help to ease any pressure off the car park at Merinda Park Station.


Vegetation and landscaping

To duplicate track, remove level crossings, and build rail bridges as part of the Cranbourne Line Upgrade, it is necessary to remove some trees close to the rail line.

Tree removal will begin around Merinda Park Station in early June.

The Level Crossing Removal Project works with environmental experts across all projects, to minimise the amount of vegetation removal required and to manage the impacts on flora and fauna.

The vegetation removal fact sheet on our website has more information about tree removal and replanting.

At the end of the project more than 27,000 trees, plants and shrubs will be planted around Merinda Park Station and nearby areas of the rail corridor.

Station designs: what you told us

In December, we released concept designs for the new Merinda Park Station and asked for your feedback on the precinct layout.

We’d like to thank everyone who completed the online survey or came to see us at the station.

Our team was able to consider all suggestions that fell within the project scope.

Key themes were:

  • positioning of accessible (disabled) parking spaces
  • location of platform entry points
  • drop off area on Endeavour Drive
  • ability to purchase refreshments at the station
  • ramp steepness and turn space.

Our team is working on the next round of designs and will have further updates for you in coming months.

Lifts added

Two lifts have been added to the new Merinda Park Station design.

Located on both sides of the station, the lifts will provide easier access for passengers with limited mobility as well as prams, luggage or shopping trolleys.

Project timeline

2020

  • Works begin to rebuild Merinda Park Station
  • Evans Road reopens
  • Extra spaces added to Lynbrook Station car park

2021

  • Station construction continues

2023

  • Duplication works complete
  • New Merinda Park Station complete

2025

  • All Cranbourne Line level crossings gone for good

* Please note that the timeline above is subject to change.

Upgrading the Cranbourne Line

Working between Dandenong and Cranbourne, we’ll be fully duplicating the line, laying 8km of new track next to the existing one.

We’re also removing the last 4 remaining level crossings between Cranbourne and the city.

  • Webster Street, Dandenong
  • Greens Road, Dandenong South
  • Evans Road, Lyndhurst
  • Camms Road, Cranbourne

Health and safety

The health and safety of our workers and the community is a key priority, as is supporting physical distancing measures in line with current health advice.

We have strict protocols in place, including enhanced industrial cleaning arrangements, provision of personal protective equipment and measures to reduce staff contact, including staggered shifts.

There is also increased cleaning across the public transport network as part of the fight against Coronavirus, including rail replacement buses.

For more information about Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Keep up to date

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Visit our website for more information about Merinda Park Station.