The Andrews Labor Government will improve journeys along the Seymour and Shepparton Lines with the delivery of a new modern signalling system to control trains between Craigieburn and Seymour.
Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll visited Kilmore East today where enabling works have commenced for the electronically operated signalling, which will be supported by modern telecommunications systems.
The $9.4 million project will support the local economy with a number of contractors involved in its delivery. UGL, SIEMENS and Integrated Rail Engineering Services are designing the signalling system which includes complex connections into the metropolitan system and existing V/Line signalling.
All Systems Contractors will complete the construction while signalling installation works will be undertaken by V/Line signalling engineers.
Train signalling systems are required on all rail tracks to inform drivers when it is safe to proceed into the next section of track. The new signalling will control trains between the end of the metropolitan system, north of Craigieburn and Dysart, where the existing automated signalling system for Seymour Station commences.
Works will include installation of new axle counters, track circuits, LED signals and a train control system to detect the location of trains and advise drivers accordingly, producing an automated system which improves safety for passengers by introducing fail-safe train detection.
The works will also replace the antiquated manual double line block signalling with an automated system, and remove the aerial power and telegraph wires, which have been repeatedly subject to theft and vandalism.
During the works, V/Line will also complete more than $7 million in track improvements while coaches replace Seymour and Shepparton line trains between Friday 22 April and Sunday 8 May. Works include replacing more than 20 kilometres of rail between Wallan and Broadford.
As stated by Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll
"The new signalling system between Seymour and Craigieburn will introduce an automated and safer system and is another step towards modernising the regional rail network."
"Seymour and Shepparton passengers can look forward to improved reliability with the new system allowing trains to run closer together, helping them get to where they need to go quicker and safer."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"It's vital that we complete regular maintenance on the network and the track works over the next few weeks will help us continue to run safe, comfortable and reliable services for northeast passengers."
