Landscaping works are well underway as part of works to create 6 MCGs worth of open space in Pakenham, following the removal of 3 dangerous and congested level crossings and building 2 new stations earlier this year.
Taking advantage of the spring conditions, more than 330,000 grasses, trees and shrubs are being planted in and around the new Pakenham and East Pakenham station precincts.
Some of Pakenham's newest plants include the weeping bottlebrush, ruby saltbush, Golden Wattle and Spotted Gum.
The new open space will include a 3m wide shared use path under the rail bridge between McGregor Road and Main Street, improving transport connections for pedestrians and bike riders to safely access Pakenham Station and the shopping precinct.
It will also feature multi-purpose areas including a barbecue area, playground, half-basketball court, active spaces and gardens. A Changing Places facility will also be built, for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.
The open space will be open for everyone to enjoy later this year.
The level crossings at Main Street, McGregor Road and Racecourse Road in Pakenham have been removed by building a 2.5km section of elevated rail, and the new stations at Pakenham and East Pakenham opened in June 2024.
The crossings were removed by building a rail bridge over the 3 roads, allowing room for the open space landscaping works, which locals can enjoy for generations to come.
In total 110 level crossings are being removed across Melbourne by 2030, with 84 already gone for good.
