Rail commuters should prepare for disruptions on the Sunbury line in March, with large sections of track closed for six days.
Ongoing works at St Albans and Ginifer stations – part of level crossing removals involving drainage and platform upgrades – means trains will stop running for almost a week.
Buses will replace trains between Sunshine and Sunbury stations from Wednesday, March 8, until Monday, March 13, with normal train services due to resume on Tuesday, March 14.
Level Crossing Removal Authority chief executive Kevin Devlin said while much of the work could be completed while trains are running, it was necessary to shut down the line to finish off some aspects.
“The St Albans level crossings were among the most dangerous in Victoria, which is why we put in a major construction effort last year to get rid of the two crossings and open two new stations,” he said.
“We’re now turning our focus to the station areas, so these will become inviting places in the heart of St Albans.
“Next month we need to install drains underneath the tracks, and complete ramps and … shelters … these works simply cannot safely take place while trains are running.”
Bendigo, Swan Hill and Echuca services will also be impacted by these works, with coaches replacing trains over the same period.
Further works at the stations will include a new retail precinct, a bus interchange and parking, due for completion mid-year.
Details: ptv.vic.gov.au.
