Warning on huge traffic delays during Camp Rd level crossing removal blitz

DRIVERS are being warned to expect major traffic delays before the notorious Camp Rd level crossing is gone by Christmas — starting tomorrow.

Workers at the Camp Road level crossing. Picture: Tim Carrafa

DRIVERS are being warned to expect major traffic delays before the notorious Camp Rd level crossing is gone by Christmas.

A month-long construction blitz from tomorrow (Wednesday) until December 18 will see the rail line lowered under Camp Rd, a new road bridge built and the removal of the boom gates.

The road bridge will have four lanes for traffic as well as a pedestrian and cycle path on each side.

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The Campbellfield site blitz is set to see up to 300 people working on the project at its peak.

Workers will excavate 85,000 cubic metres of soil to create the rail trench — equal to 30 Olympic swimming pools of dirt.

Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the removal of the crossing would put an end to the frustration and delays experienced by the 20,000 drivers who rely on Camp Rd every day.

Broadmeadows state Labor MP Frank McGuire thanked the community for their patience during the construction works.

“While the biggest disruptions will last a month, the benefits will last forever,” he said.

The project also includes future proofing for a second track on the Upfield line between Gowrie and Upfield stations, widening of Camp Rd to allow for traffic growth, a future station at Campbellfield and an Upfield bicycle path extension.

Camp Rd will be closed at the level crossing from 9pm tomorrow (November 15) to 6am November 30. Detours will be in place for road users.

The Upfield railway line will be closed between Coburg and Upfield stations from 8.30pm on November 16 to 6am on December 18, with buses replacing trains.

The project will be complete, including landscaping, by early 2018.