A new elevated Melton Station has opened to passengers, marking the latest step in a major rail upgrade that has removed four dangerous and congested level crossings across Melton and Truganina.
The new station welcomed passengers for the first time this morning, with trains now travelling over Exford and Coburns roads on two new rail bridges.
The project is designed to make getting around Melton safer while improving the capacity and reliability of train services.
More than 73,000 vehicles previously travelled through the four level crossings each day, with motorists spending almost half an hour stuck at the boom gates during the morning peak.
The new Melton Station has four platforms, with lifts and stairs providing access through an underpass. The longer platforms have been built to accommodate nine-car VLocity trains, which are due to begin running to Melton next year and will increase peak service capacity by 50 per cent.
Member for Melton Steve McGhie said the new station would make public transport easier for the growing community.
“The new Melton station is a real game changer for our community, making it easier for people to catch the train and get to where they need to go.”
“Getting rid of four dangerous and congested level crossings will boost safety and deliver more reliable journeys.”
There is still more work to come around the station precinct, including an air-conditioned waiting room, upgraded toilets and a seven-bay bus interchange.
Additional commuter parking will also open over the coming months, taking the total number of spaces to more than 900. Landscaping featuring native trees, plants, shrubs and grasses will also be added.
The station has been built with the future Melton Electrification project in mind. Its longer platforms will eventually allow Metro services to use two of the platforms, while electric trains will be housed at the new Cobblebank stabling yard.
