With the level crossings gone and more than 2 million passenger journeys taken from the new Glenroy, Bell and Preston stations since they opened in 2022, the projects are proving popular not just with the community but also with the infrastructure experts.
The Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC) recently awarded Preston and Glenroy level crossing removal projects ‘Leading’ sustainability ratings, with scores of 94 and 83 points respectively, out of a possible 100 points.
ISC Ratings are calculated by assessing sustainability elements, covering everything from environmental management, stakeholder participation, climate change resilience, community health and wellbeing, as well as the design and protection of heritage buildings.
The Preston project reduced energy emissions by 47 per cent and delivered a sustainable precinct; with three MCGs worth of new public spaces created underneath the elevated rail line.
In Glenroy, the team were able to send an impressive 80,000 cubic metres of rock and soil (equal to about 30 Olympic-sized swimming pools) to a recycling facility in Epping.
Recently, the Preston project also collected the Excellence in Governance award at the 2023 ISC Annual Gala Awards and the Infrastructure Project Excellence Award at the 2023 Australasian Rail Industry (ARI) Awards.
The new Glenroy Station opened to passengers in 2022 as part of the Glenroy Road level crossing removal project, and now provides a modern gateway for commuters travelling to and from the area.
In 2022, the Preston level crossing removal project removed 4 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.
