Diggers Rest level crossings latest

The final designs of the new road bridges that will remove two level crossings in Diggers Rest have been revealed. The proposed changes are expected to improve traffic flow and safety.

The new road bridges will be used by 8,000 motorists that are typically stuck at the level crossing for 36 minutes every morning – with 27 trains traveling through each boom gate during the morning peak.

At Old Calder Highway, the road will be diverted to the west over the rail line near Stan Payne Reserve, before curving to the north to connect with Diggers Rest-Coimadai Rd.

The new two-lane road bridge will include a raised cycle path over the rail line and upgraded lighting to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety.

The Diggers Rest Station precinct will feature new accessible pedestrian and cycling paths, along with new public open spaces.

New longer bus bays will also be built to the west of Diggers Rest Station to service existing and future bus routes, with new shelters, seats and upgraded walking paths.

At Watsons Rd, the new road bridge has been designed to accommodate for future residential developments, with future pathways able to connect to the new pedestrian path on the bridge.

Early works will begin this year ahead of major works later in the year, with the new bridges completed and the level crossings gone for good in 2025.

The Sunbury Line will be level crossing free in 2025 and will soon connect to the Metro Tunnel, creating capacity for more trains to run more often on the line.