Tara Murray
Congestion at the Calder Park Drive level crossing is set to be a thing of the past, with the state government announcing plans to remove it.
The state government announced it would remove an additional 10 level crossings, including the Calder Park Drive crossing, before 2025.
The Calder Park Drive crossing is one of the most congested on the Sunbury line, according to the government.
State government data shows 11,000 vehicles travel through the crossing each day, with boom gates down for up to 21 per cent of the morning peak.
The government expects the amount of time the boom gates are down to increase when more trains run on the line when the Metro Tunnel opens.
Early investigations suggest the most likely design to remove the Calder Park Drive crossing is a road bridge over the rail line, according to the government.
As part of the works, the nearby Holden Road crossing at Diggers Rest will be closed, easing congestion and boosting safety in the area.
Brimbank council called for the removal of the Calder Park Drive crossing as part of its Fix the Calder campaign.
Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins said she were thrilled to have yet another level crossing gone for good on the Sunbury line.
Three other crossings on the Sunbury line have already been removed, while work is under way on Gap Road removal in Sunbury.
Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said the announcement of the 10 crossing removals would be good news for many commuters.
“Every Victorian knows the dinging sound of boom gates coming down and the frustration that comes with it, that’s why we’re getting rid of them – saving lives, easing congestion and getting you home sooner.”
