Footbridge connecting Eastland to Ringwood railway station still possible

A FOOTBRIDGE connecting Eastland and Ringwood railway station is still a possibility despite concerns it would create an unsafe and sterile environment.

Ringwood train Station upgrade, Maroondah Highway. Picture: Stuart Milligan

A FOOTBRIDGE connecting Eastland to the redeveloped Ringwood Station is on the cards, despite Maroondah Council saying it would create an unsafe and sterile environment.

Public Transport Victoria spokeswoman Rosa Zuccarelli said there was no overhead crossing planned for the recent redevelopment, however, she did not rule it out.

She said the design made provision for a potential long-term extension over Maroondah Highway to Eastland.

“However, after extensive consultation with Maroondah Council and local advocates, it was decided that a ground-level crossing would integrate better with the shopping centre’s development,” Ms Zuccarelli said.

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Mayor Tony Dib said building a bridge and removing pedestrians from Maroondah Highway had the potential to sterilise the pedestrian environment.

“(This could) make the whole area less enticing and safe,” Councillor Dib said.

“The focus on improving the pedestrian access at ground level, without a bridge, has intensified the activity of people on the street.

“This crucially has resulted in a more vibrant, active and safer space than would occur with a bridge.”

RELATED: No plans for footbridge at Ringwood train station over Maroondah Highway

Almost 6000 people use Ringwood station for travel each weekday, plus 4800 bus travellers.

The $66 million upgrade to the Ringwood railway station precinct, expected to be finished early next year, will see the creation of a pedestrian-friendly boulevard on Maroondah Highway, with continued reduced speed limits, and a raised pedestrian crossing from the station to Eastland.

The new bus interchange was opened on October 29, by Parliamentary Secretary for Transport Shaun Leane and Deputy Premier James Merlino.

It includes a centralised waiting area with improved shelters and seating, real-time passenger information, accessible public toilet facilities, as well as extensive CCTV coverage and brighter lighting.