The Sunbury line upgrade has been completed six months ahead of schedule, paving the way for the early opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2025.
In an announcement on July 11, the state government said more than 300 metres of track was built to connect the Sunbury line to the western entrance, while installing and testing high-capacity signalling and power equipment.
Premier Daniel Andrews said the upgrade will reduce congestion in Sunbury, and allow bigger trains when the Metro Tunnel opens.
“One more level crossing [is] gone for good, and bigger trains set to run on the Sunbury line when the Metro Tunnel opens,” he said.
Work on the upgrade began in 2019 and included power and signalling upgrades, new substations, platform extensions, new wheelchair boarding pads and upgrades to train stabling.
There is now 97 kilometres of continuous track from Melbourne’s north-west to south-east, via the new twin, nine kilometre rail tunnels under the city.
The Metro Tunnel, which is one year ahead of schedule, will allow Sunbury line passengers to travel to Cranbourne or Pakenham without getting off the train, and access five new underground stations when the tunnel is complete.
Sunbury MP Josh Bull said: “Removing the Gap Road level crossing, upgrading Sunbury Road and preparing the line for more frequent, reliable trains for local passengers… is another step in building a better Sunbury”.
Zoe Moffatt
