After celebrating the first birthday of the new Preston and Bell stations recently, the Preston project has picked up 2 awards this month, celebrating the sustainability and engineering achievements of the project which removed 4 level crossings and built 2 new stations in Melbourne’s north.
Leading the way in sustainability, the project took out the Excellence in Governance Award at the Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC) Annual Gala Awards. These awards recognise organisations delivering the sustainable outcomes and transformations needed to shape lives through infrastructure, with the judges' feedback noting:
‘Embedding all stakeholders in the governance framework from early on was excellent and ensured a well-rounded approach across a range of desired outcomes.’
The project also won the Infrastructure Project Excellence Award at the 2023 Australasian Rail Industry (ARI) Awards, overcoming the challenges of working in a narrow rail corridor, and maintaining access to a train maintenance facility on the rail line during construction.
The team collaborated with a diverse range of stakeholders to deliver 2 innovative engineering solutions – Single Line Running and Radiant Heat Curing. The result was the efficient delivery of this large-scale project, with minimal disruption to the train network and local community.
In 2022, the Preston level crossing removal project removed four level crossings and opened 2 new stations in Preston – unlocking around 3 MCGs of open space, creating vibrant and sustainable precincts for everyone to enjoy.
A shared walking and cycling path from Oakover Road through to Murray Road connects locals to the new stations and open spaces which feature seating, play areas, BBQ facilities, and an amphitheatre next to Bell Station.
