We’re removing the level crossings at Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road, Diggers Rest, improving local safety, and making the Sunbury Line level crossing-free in 2025.

The new Watsons Road bridge will open to traffic on the afternoon of Thursday 27 November, reconnecting the east and west sides of the rail line in Diggers Rest. As there will be a change in driving conditions, including a new speed limit, please drive through the area with care.

Following the road bridge opening, finishing works will continue in the area. Thank you to the local community for your patience.

What we’re doing

• Opening the new Watsons Road bridge.
• Landscaping and installing fencing on both sides of the bridge.
• Finishing permanent maintenance and resident access tracks on both sides of the bridge.

When we’ll work

• 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
• 7am to 3pm, Saturday (as required).

What to expect

You may notice varying levels of noise, as well as dust and vibration. You may also notice construction vehicles and trucks on local roads, including Watsons Road, Buckley Road, Crinnion Road and Diggers Rest-Bulla Road.

Changes to the way you travel

For your safety, please follow signage and traffic management in place.

Road

New Watsons Road bridge

From Thursday 27 November (afternoon):

• The new road bridge will open from Thursday 27 November.
• The pedestrian path on the road bridge is also expected to open from Thursday 27 November, pending energisation of permanent lighting.
• Changed traffic conditions will be in place around the area.
• The temporary speed limit on the new road bridge will be 40km/h.

Watsons Road, between Old Vineyard Road and Buckland Way

Intermittent and temporary lane closures. Two-way traffic will be maintained at all times:

• On weekdays from 7am to 6pm, Thursday 27 November until Friday 19 December

Thank you Diggers Rest

In late November we’re hosting a celebration to thank the Diggers Rest community for your patience while we've worked to remove the level crossings at Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road.

Bring your family and friends for a fun-filled day featuring free food, live music and entertainment. Plus, meet the friendly animals from Farmer Darryl's mobile animal farm.

More information

• Sign up for project updates.
• Text DIGGERS to 0427 840 967 to sign up for SMS alerts.
• If you have any questions or would like more information about the project, call us on 1800 105 105 or email contact@levelcrossings.vic.gov.au 24/7.

For languages other than English please call 9209 0147

• ਪੰਜਾਬੀ– Punjabi 9209 0147
• हिंदी - Hindi 9209 0147
• Italiano – Italian 9209 0417