A week-long closure is now underway to allow for the removal of three level crossings and the building of two new stations in Cheltenham and Mentone in south east Melbourne.
The new stations will open in mid-2020, and in the meantime buses will replace trains between Moorabbin and Mordialloc.
While the stations are shutdown, crews will work on piling, service relocation, and other works. Later in 2020, a two-month shut down will be imposed for further works.
From May 24, rail trenches will be dug out and new stations will be built.
The new Mentone station is scheduled to open in mid-July, and Cheltenham station is expected to open in August.
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, extra precautions will be in place for workers and passengers. These measures will ensure job security for those working on the level crossing removals and new stations.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Jacinta Allan, said that these construction works will continue while the response to COVID-19 continues.
“We’re continuing work on these projects despite the COVID-19 outbreak – providing certainty to local workers and making progress on delivering a better train network for Victorians,” she said.
The works at the two stations will also provide benefits to the community
“These level crossings are dangerous and unsafe – we’re getting rid of them, like we promised, as well as delivering new stations for Cheltenham and Mentone, with more open space for the community to enjoy,” said Allan.