Train services have returned to the Werribee Line and Altona Loop and Maddox Road has reopened to traffic following a 2-week construction blitz for works to get rid of 2 dangerous level crossings in Newport.
Passenger services are now running on the new elevated rail bridges over Maddox Road, boosting safety and easing traffic congestion, with the level crossing in operation for a limited number of freight services each day, until its removal later this year.
Previously, the boom gates at Maddox Road were down for about 50 minutes in the morning peak when up to 48 trains passed through the level crossing.
While trains weren’t running, the new pedestrian and cycling bridge was lifted into place over Champion Road, providing locals with a safer connection over the busy rail line.
The level crossing at Champion Road permanently closed earlier this month, with drivers now able to use the new Akuna Drive link road to travel safely through the area and connect to Maddox Road.
In the coming months, crews will complete the freight rail bridge over Maddox Road, ready for operation later this year, permanently separating trains from road users and making Newport boom gate free.
Works will also start on a new pedestrian and cycling path along Railway Parade, creating a safer way for people to access the new pedestrian and cycling bridge at Champion Road.
The project will also build a new 400m path along the rail line between Maddox Road and Ross Road. The path will provide the missing link for a safe off-road connection from Newport Station all the way to Altona North.
Five level crossings are going for good in Melbourne’s inner west, at Newport, Altona, Spotswood and Yarraville, boosting safety and easing congestion throughout the are.
The Werribee Line is also set to benefit from two additional trains per hour in the mornings and afternoons, with the new services being rolled out in the coming months.
