We're getting on with the job of removing the Werribee Street level crossing in Werribee, by building a rail bridge. Removing the level crossing will mean safer, more reliable journey times and new open spaces for the community to enjoy.

The rail bridge will be about 1km long and up to 6m high when it crosses Werribee Street, with tracks for both freight and regional trains.

To safely build the rail bridge, some trees and vegetation will need to be removed. We will protect and preserve as much vegetation in the area as possible. We will also be planting new vegetation in the open space under the elevated rail, which will tie in with upgrades to nearby Wyndham Park.

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.

Vegetation assessment

Trees and vegetation were assessed 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 Werribee Street 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 Werribee community. We have used this feedback through our planning and design stages and for each tree removed, we will plant 2 in its place.

When the new rail bridge is built, we will landscape and plant new trees and vegetation in the open space beneath the rail line. The vegetation will be drought-tolerant and mostly native, with some exotic species where appropriate.

We will continue to work with Wyndham City Council and the local community on vegetation management and landscaping plans at Werribee Street.

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