The Allan Labor Government has released new designs for the Newport level crossing removal project reflecting community feedback - with the designs incorporating new community spaces, additional tree planting and exterior designs.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams today invited locals to have their say, with the next round of consultation helping to shape the final designs of the project which will be released later this year.
A new pedestrian and cycling bridge will be built over the rail line at Champion Road, linking to local walking and cycling paths to keep the community connected.
To keep locals moving, Akuna Drive will be extended to connect Champion Road to a boom gate-free Maddox Road. Works will include new turning lanes from Maddox Road into Akuna Drive to improve traffic flow.
A colourful architectural screening will feature on the new Maddox Road rail bridge, while decorative patterns and shapes will be added to the bridge's concrete retaining walls.
More car parking will be built in the area, and a new pedestrian path in Quarry Reserve will be delivered next to the Williamstown Horse and Pony Club connecting Park Crescent to Akuna Drive - allowing locals to access nearby businesses.
The Level Crossing Removal Project will also plant 145 mature trees around Newport, as well as around 30,000 large plants and shrubs throughout the project area.
Improved connections to surrounding shared use paths are still being investigated and more information will be provided to the community soon.
Early works have started, including commencing installing temporary fencing and relocating utilities - with Newport set to be level crossing free next year.
The Labor Government is removing 110 level crossings across Melbourne by 2030, with 84 already gone for good.
The updated designs can be viewed, and locals can have their say on aspects of the project at engage.vic.gov.au/lxrp-newport.
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams
"We're getting rid of the level crossings at Maddox and Champion roads in Newport - and the community can continue to have their say to help shape the designs of the project."
"We are removing every single level crossing on the Werribee Line by 2030, reducing time Victorians spend at boom gates and boosting safety along the line."
