As part of Melbourne Airport Rail, a second rail bridge will be built over the Maribyrnong River Valley alongside the existing heritage bridge which was built in 1929.

The new rail bridge will be around the same height as the existing bridge, which is approximately 550m long and 50m high. It will become the second highest bridge in Victoria after the West Gate Bridge.

The rail bridge will be designed to complement the existing heritage rail bridge and minimise impacts to the landscape.

The new rail bridge is an opportunity to celebrate the local area, with Melbourne Airport Rail passengers being able to enjoy the far-reaching views of the Maribyrnong River Valley.

Design solution

The new rail bridge will comprise of an elevated twin track rail crossing to the west of the existing heritage rail bridge. The bridge will support Melbourne Airport Rail trains travelling in both directions to and from the airport.

Best solution for the local environment

The existing rail corridor crossing the Maribyrnong River Valley is highly constrained with steep cliffs and existing infrastructure, including the heritage rail bridge and a jet fuel pipeline. The new rail bridge has been designed to minimise potential impacts to existing infrastructure and the environment.

Planning and environmental specialists and design engineers are continuing to refine the design and construction approach to avoid, protect, and manage potential impacts.

Construction will also be managed to minimise disturbance during migration and breeding periods of nationally protected species including the Australian Grayling and Growling Grass Frog which live in and around and Maribyrnong River.

Construction of the new rail bridge also provides the opportunity to remove weed species and replant native vegetation, which will be carried out in consultation with key stakeholders.

Construction Planning

Planning and design work for the new bridge is underway. The proposed construction approach for the new bridge will involve multiple stages and include excavation and piling of the bridge foundations, tower cranes to lift in bridge segments and superstructure construction technologies.

During construction there may also be disruption to the Maribyrnong River Trail. Clearly signed diversion routes will be in place to allow people to continue walking and cycling through this area.

Construction on Melbourne Airport Rail will begin in 2022 with a target opening date of 2029, subject to approvals.