We're getting on with the job of removing the Old Geelong Road level crossing in Hoppers Crossing, by building a road bridge.

Removing the level crossing will mean safer, more reliable journey times with no more queuing at the boom gates.

The crossing will be removed by building a new road bridge over the rail line, creating a new connection between Old Geelong Road and Princes Highway.

We will also build a new pedestrian overpass to allow pedestrians to safely cross the rail line and access Hoppers Crossing Station.

To safely build the new road bridge and pedestrian overpass, some trees and vegetation will need to be removed.

We will protect and preserve as much vegetation in the area as possible. The project team is working with specialists to minimise impacts on vegetation. As part of our planning, tree assessments were completed to determine the impacts of the project on the future health and stability of nearby trees.

Tree and vegetation assessment

We assessed trees and vegetation to understand:

• structural integrity, including the size and location of tree roots
• health and life expectancy
• amenity and environmental value
• location of services in proximity to trees.

These assessments have helped inform which trees will stay, be protected or removed.

The area has also been inspected for native vegetation and wildlife. No protected species were identified within the project area.

During vegetation removal works, we will have a fauna handler, arborist and environmental professionals on site to appropriately manage and assist any wildlife we may encounter.

The Old Geelong Road Level Crossing Removal Project is committed to minimising and managing impacts to local wildlife and protecting the environment while we deliver this project.

Landscaping and new vegetation

During community consultation you told us that trees and vegetation are important to the Hoppers Crossing community. We have used this feedback through our planning and design stages and for each tree removed, we will plant 2 in its place.

With the road closed at the site of the existing crossing, there will be space for new plazas at each end of the pedestrian overpass.

These new spaces will be landscaped with a selection of native and exotic plant species that are drought tolerant and in keeping with the local area.

We will continue to work with Wyndham City Council and the local community on vegetation management and landscaping opportunities at Old Geelong Road.

Clearing trees and vegetation

Most of the trees identified for removal are located along the rail corridor and Princes Highway.

We will put fencing around trees that do not need to be removed to ensure the roots and branches are protected during construction.

Smaller trees and shrubs will be mulched on site while larger logs will be retained and repurposed locally.

We are working with community groups to donate mulch and logs to support local projects.

More information

Stay up to date on the project by signing up for regular email updates.

Call us on 1800 105 105 or email contact@levelcrossings.vic.gov.au