We’re upgrading the Eastern Freeway with new express lanes, new Eastern Busway, smart technology and a connection to North East Link – slashing travel times and improving travel in Melbourne’s east.

What we're doing

As we set up safe construction areas for the Eastern Freeway Upgrades between Tram and Springvale roads we'll relocate underground and overhead utilities, including power and sewer services. This provides space to build new freeway lanes and build the new walking and cycling bridge to Eram Park.

From mid October to late November, we'll work with United Energy to relocate the overhead power lines east of Shanklin Street, Box Hill North and the Eram Road walking and cycling bridge.

Works include:

• installing temporary fencing to secure works areas
• removing trees and vegetation to create space for the relocated power poles
• drilling holes for the new poles
• installing the power poles and stringing the lines
• removing existing power poles and lines.

Impacted residents will be notified of any associated power outages by United Energy in advance.

Where and when

We'll mostly work during the day, however we'll need to close the freeway for one night in November to remove the power lines over the freeway. We'll speak to residents about planned night works ahead of time.

What to expect

• Construction vehicles, machinery, equipment, and workers in the area
• Medium to high levels of noise, dust and vibration from machinery
• Chainsaws and excavators to trim and remove trees and vegetation on the Koonung Creek Trail
• Power pole relocations closer to property boundaries
• Intermittent disruptions on the Koonung Creek Trail with access maintained under traffic management
• Temporary closure of residential back gate access to Koonung Creek Trail for safety during upgrade works
• Use of directional lighting when working at night
• One overnight freeway closure with detours in place.

Please note that these dates and times are subject to change.

Managing impacts

We carefully manage our works in line with the project's strict environmental performance requirements including:

• working during the day, where possible
• installing temporary fencing and barriers to create safe work areas
• monitoring noise and vibration levels with real time monitoring
• minimising light spill with targeted lighting
• preventing dust and water runoff with environmental controls.

Keeping in touch

We’ll be out talking to nearby residents and businesses about these works in more detail, including how we’ll be managing any local impacts. If you have any questions now, please contact the 24/7 Contact Centre on 1800 105 105.

Schedule is subject to change. Visit Disruptions for schedule changes.

If you need assistance due to a hearing or speech impairment, visit relayservice.gov.au.  For languages other than English please call 9209 0147.

For more information call 1800 105 105 or email contact@bigbuild.vic.gov.au.