Lilydale and Mooroolbark to get new railway stations, level crossings removed by 2022

Two more level crossings will be removed and stations rebuilt under the State Government’s latest plans to ease traffic congestion in the outer east. See how sky rail could transform the area.

Eastern Victoria Region state Labor MP Harriet Shing, Monbulk state Labor MP James Merlino and Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan at the Mooroolbark level crossing on Manchester Rd. Picture: Kiel Egging

Sky rail is coming to Melbourne’s outer east after the State Government revealed plans to remove to two more level crossings.

Lilydale and Mooroolbark will get new elevated stations as part of the removal of level crossings on Manchester Rd and Maroondah Highway.

The State Government chose sky rail as its preferred design, stating it will speed up delivery of the project by 18 months.

It also believes sky rail will lead to less land acquisition, lower tree losses and a lower risk of flooding.

The proposed design of the new Lilydale railway station and level crossing. Picture: Kiel Egging

Monbulk state Labor MP James Merlino said the Government based it decision on engineering and sky rail was the logical answer.

“People want these level crossings removed, that is number one, and the rail over delivers a fantastic opportunity for additional open space and community use, so the end outcome I think will be stunning,” he said.

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As part of the works, Lilydale’s station will be moved closer to shops in the town centre, while a new multi-deck 450-space carpark will be built at Mooroolbark.

The proposed design of the new Mooroolbark station and level crossing. Picture: Kiel Egging

Level Crossing Removal Authority chief executive Kevin Devlin did not say how much the works would cost but they would be put out tender shortly.

Mr Devlin also said elevators were not part of the new station designs but could be added following community consultation sessions.

MORE: NEW STATIONS WON’T HAVE ELEVATORS

SKY RAIL POSSIBILITY FOR LILYDALE

STREAKER ON THE BELGRAVE LINE

Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the works would future-proof the Lilydale line for other upgrades including track duplication and more services.

Construction is set to begin mid-next year with both crossings removed and stations rebuilt by mid-2022.

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