Below Rail Infrastructure, Passenger Rail

Shepparton Line upgrades fast-tracked

Freight rail track - stock - credit Shutterstock (8)

Shepparton line upgrades are to be fast-tracked to enable a fifth service to the region next year rather than the original 2020 timeframe.

To enable the additional services, $43 million will be provided for new train stabling facilities at Shepparton Station and a crossing loop near Murchison East (with the final location soon to be determined)

The crossing loop will enable trains to pass one another and allow better service reliability by reducing conflict between passenger and freight trains.

“We’re fast-tracking this important upgrade to give locals and visitors of Victoria’s fifth-largest city the transport services they expect and deserve,” state transport minister Jacinta Allan said.

“Local passengers have been calling for better train services and improved connections for Shepparton and we’re delivering exactly that, sooner.”

The Melbourne Metro Rail Authority (MMRA), under the auspices of the Victorian government’s Regional Rail Revival Program, will oversee the delivery of the upgrades.

Work is reportedly to begin soon, with site investigations near the rail line that will determine final design and planning processes.

Since 2017, the Shepparton Line has received nine additional services. 29 coach services will eventually be added between Seymour and Shepparton in advance of the future additional train services next year.