Level Crossing Removal Project: How project has changed Melbourne

Say what you want about them, but the level crossing removal project has certainly transformed Melbourne’s suburbs. Check out the photos.

From Essendon to Lilydale, suburbs across Melbourne have been transformed by the Level Crossing Removal Project.

The government is removing 85 level crossings across the state, with 58 already gone.

While the program has been welcomed by many frustrated drivers and train commuters, it has also created plenty of controversy, with many residents not happy with sky rail in their neighbourhoods, the removal of precious trees, loss of trade, and claims one project has actually made traffic worse.

But the project isn’t slowing down – the government recently announced work would soon start on removing the level crossing in Keon Parade, in Melbourne’s north.

An early plan has been released with a 750m elevated rail bridge to take trains over the road and a new Keon Park station moved to the south side of Keon Parade.

Designs have also been released for the level crossing removal at Narre Warren station.

Work is also ramping up to remove two level crossings at Union St, Surrey Hills and Mont Albert Rd, Mont Albert.

Check out before and after photos of some of city’s most significant level crossing removals.

CARRUM

Before – a pedestrian crosses the tracks at Carrum.

After – the elevated station now has sea views.

LILYDALE

Before – a train crosses Maroondah Highway.

After – work progressing on the new bridge. Picture: Lilydale Township Action Group

MOOROOLBARK

Before – cars crossing the Manchester Rd crossing.

After – work progressing on the new bridge.

BLACKBURN

Before – cars banked up along Blackburn Rd.

After – the rail line has been put underground. Picture: Level Crossing Removal Project

BAYSWATER

Before – the train crossing the Mountain Highway tracks.

After – the rail now runs under the road. Picture: Pete Glenane/HiVis Pictures

COBURG

Before – cars banked up near Coburg station.

After – the new rail bridge over Bell St. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie

TOORAK ROAD KOOYONG

Before: traffic banked up either side of the Toorak Rd Kooyong level crossing.

After: the new rail bridge.

CLAYTON

Before – the traffic along Clayton Rd. Picture: Level Crossing Removal Project

After: the new sky rail bridge.