Tara Murray
The Calder Action Group and Brimbank council have welcomed the state government’s decision to remove the Calder Park Drive level crossing.
Last Thursday, the government announced it would remove an additional 10 level crossings, including Calder Park Drive, by 2025.
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.
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.
Action group president Russell Mowatt was stunned when he heard the news. The group has been campaigning for the crossing to be removed for a number of years.
“That is fantastic news,” he said.
“There was a study a few years ago and it was way down the list at 194 or something to have it removed.
“I’m just blown away by the news, it’s a pleasant surprise.”
Mr Mowatt said with the number of houses being built in the area, congestion at the crossing would only get worse.
Brimbank council has been calling for the level crossing to be removed as part of the its ‘Fix the Calder’ campaign.
“Removing the Calder Park Drive level crossing is another huge win for our community and our ‘Fix the Calder’ campaign,” mayor Ranka Rasic said.
“With 11,000 vehicles going through the crossing each day, this will save travel time for local residents and commuters.
“Importantly, it will also help improve traffic flow on the Calder Freeway – where traffic frequently comes to a standstill on the Calder Park Drive exit when the boom gates are down.
“The Calder Freeway has been identified as one of Victoria’s most dangerous roads, and work is urgently needed to improve safety, reduce congestion and provide better access and connections to cater for population and freight growth.”
The announcement follows a state government commitment of $50 million to upgrade the Calder Freeway. The federal government had previously committed $50 million to the project.
Mr Mowatt said it made sense for the level crossing removal and upgrade works to the freeway to be done in conjunction.
