Planning work is moving forward to remove level crossings at Brunswick and Parkville in Melbourne, with the project referred to the Victorian Minister for Planning to decide whether an Environmental Effects Statement (EES) is needed.
“Planning approvals form a standard part of every level crossing removal project, and the project team works closely with relevant agencies to ensure it meets all regulatory standards and requirements,” a government statement said.
“Under the Victorian Environment Effects Act 1978 (EE Act), the potential impact of each project is assessed, and considers a range of environmental, heritage, social and economic matters.”
This project has the potential to meet two of the combined referral criteria for an Environmental Effects Statement (EES) – visual amenity and heritage.
Eight sets of boom gates will be removed on the Upfield Line from Albion Street in Brunswick to Park Street in Parkville by building a 2.1-kilometre rail bridge over the roads.
As part of the project, two “modern and accessible stations” will be delivered in new locations in Brunswick.
This government said the level crossing removals will improve public and active transport, unlock 2 MCG stadiums’ worth of open space, and reduce travel time for 71,000 drivers each weekday.
The level crossings are due to be removed by 2030, with the new stations also opening by that date.
