Tuesday, 7 March 2023

Glen Huntly level crossing removals

Ryan BATCHELOR (Southern Metropolitan) (17:51): (75) My adjournment is for the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure. The action I seek is for her to facilitate a visit to the Glen Huntly level crossing removal. We know that every Victorian dreads the ringing sound of the boom gates coming down and the frustration that comes with it during the morning and afternoon peaks. I am pleased to say that in the last six years this government has removed 67 level crossings and has built and upgraded 37 train stations, easing congestion and making our roads safer and people’s travel journeys more comfortable, with work still underway at more than 18 sites. Last year the Andrews government committed to removing 25 more level crossings by 2030, which is going to be a remarkable transformation of our transport network, meaning 110 dangerous and congested level crossings will be gone for good. This includes the two level crossings at Neerim Road and Glen Huntly Road, currently being removed in the Southern Metropolitan Region.

The Glen Huntly Road level crossing is one of the city’s most dangerous, featuring one of the last remaining tram squares in Melbourne. Used by vehicles, trams and trains it is a cause for huge delays, particularly during peak hour, as the interaction between train and tram tracks increases the risk of tram derailment and requires trains to pass through at much lower speeds, meaning boom gates are down for even longer. Since 2016, 12 near misses have been recorded at the Glen Huntly Road level crossing, and 10 have involved pedestrians. With the level crossings removed the busy area will become safer and more accessible, reducing delays for drivers.

We are also building a brand new station at Glen Huntly. The old station is being replaced with a modern and safer facility with upgraded tram, cycling and car parking facilities, including accessible facilities for people with disabilities, making it easier and safer for all passengers. I think everyone in the community is looking forward to the new light-filled train station, and these two dangerous and congested level crossings are being fast-tracked for removal. Work is underway. Three thousand concrete piles are being laid right now to stabilise trenches, and a big dig will commence mid year. There is a very big tank being installed. Work is going to be completed in 2024, a year ahead of schedule. There will be unavoidable disruption and delay in the meantime, but it is going to be worth it. I want to thank the Caulfield and Glen Huntly communities for their patience as we get on with this very important infrastructure project.