Passengers on the Warrnambool line will benefit from faster and more reliable trains after major maintenance works are completed during a statewide autumn transport construction blitz.
The $4.5 million package of works has been timed over the Easter holiday period to cause the least impact for passengers as the Andrews Labor Government gets on with an unprecedented investment in transport infrastructure across the state.
During the blitz, extensive track, signalling and station upgrades will be completed between Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool, allowing for the removal of temporary speed restrictions that have been causing delays to Warrnambool line passenger services
The Otway Street rail bridge in Warrnambool and two bridges near Allansford will also be upgraded and station canopies at Winchelsea, Camperdown and Terang will be repaired.
These upgrades add to the $18 million sleeper replacement program between Colac and Warrnambool, which is due for completion by the end of February.
While the Easter works are completed, coaches will replace all Warrnambool line trains for all or part of the journey from Saturday 6 April to Monday 15 April.
Coaches will also be extended all the way through to Southern Cross from Tuesday 16 April until Sunday 21 April to enable essential works to be completed on the Geelong line.
Trains will resume normal services on Easter Monday 22 April, ensuring Cats fans can travel by train to the blockbuster AFL game between Geelong and Hawthorn at the MCG.
Detailed site surveying is underway for the Labor Government's Warrnambool Line Upgrade, which will enable a fifth-daily return service between Warrnambool and Melbourne, and boost safety and reliability.
Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling, with detailed travel information available at ptv.vic.gov.au.
For more information about Victoria's Big Build, visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan
"Over the past six months we've invested more than $20 million in essential maintenance works along the Warrnambool line to make sure trains keep running safely and reliably."
"We know these works can be frustrating – but we're not wasting a day, and we thank passengers while we get these important works done."
As stated by Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne
"Thousands of passengers rely on the Warrnambool train services to get to work, appointments and special events – that's why we're getting on with these important maintenance works."
"We're asking passengers to plan ahead as we deliver a more reliable Warrnambool line once works are complete."
