By Emma Xerri
Major works have officially kicked off at Beaconsfield’s level crossing, making it the latest in a long list of level crossings being removed across Melbourne’s Pakenham and Cranbourne lines.
Following necessary preparations undertaken earlier this year, including the installation of fencing and temporary pavements, digging will now commence at Station Street, with crews working 24/7 on the 193 piles that will form the new road bridge.
The road bridge, which is set to be completed in 2025, will allow for vehicles to travel over the rail line, improving efficiency and safety for the 5200 vehicles that currently cross the rail line daily, and allowing for improved connections and possible future transport upgrades to the Beaconsfield Station Precinct.
While the construction of the new bridge will require the acquisition of the station master’s house, the bridge will impact only the extension at the rear of the house, ensuring most of the property and key historical elements are protected.
The nearby Bunya Bunya Pine tree will also be retained.
However, as only a small part of a vast Level Crossing Removal Project, the Station Street crossing removal will work together with all other works throughout the Cardinia Shire Council, and the broader Pakenham and Cranbourne Lines, to promote improved experiences beyond just Beaconsfield.
Once level crossing free, the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines will boost safety and ease congestion for all road users, allowing for safer journeys and eliminating 3.4 hours of dreaded boom gate down time in the morning peak across the whole South East.
