Big changes are coming to Yarraville with new designs revealed for the removal of the dangerous Anderson Street level crossing, paving the way for safer streets, better connections and a more pedestrian-friendly village centre.
The early plans include two new pedestrian underpasses designed to keep locals connected on both sides of the rail line while improving access through one of Melbourne’s busiest inner west precincts.
Anderson Street has long been considered one of the most dangerous crossings on the metropolitan network, with one fatality, four serious injuries and 26 near misses involving trains, pedestrians and vehicles recorded in recent years. During peak hour, boom gates are down for almost half the morning as up to 50 trains move through the crossing.
Under the proposed designs, a new underpass at Anderson Street will include lifts and stairs, making it easier for cyclists, parents with prams and people using mobility aids or wheelchairs to move through the area safely. A second underpass near Murray Street will feature accessible ramps and stairs.
The biggest change for locals will come in 2029 when Anderson Street officially closes to traffic and transforms into a new pedestrian plaza in the heart of Yarraville Village. The new public space will include seating and open areas aimed at strengthening the suburb’s popular village atmosphere.
While the crossing itself will disappear, vehicle access on the west side of the station will remain through the existing bus interchange to help traffic continue moving safely through the precinct.
The project forms part of wider works removing five level crossings across Melbourne’s inner west, with the Werribee Line expected to become completely boom gate free by 2029, one year ahead of schedule.
Locals can now view the designs and provide feedback as planning continues.
