By Oliver Lees
Construction works are set to ramp up to remove the level crossing at Gap Road in Sunbury, as the builders will soon get started on digging the new road under rail and pedestrian path.
The Rail Infrastructure Alliance (RIA), a group venture comprising builders John Holland, CPB Contractors, AECOM and Metro Trains Melbourne, have been awarded the contract to proceed with the works.
The entire level crossing will be removed to make way for a road that will run beneath the station’s tracks.
This will include the use of piling rigs to dig supports for a retaining wall for the road and to support the rail bridge.
Sunbury Line Upgrade and Gap Road Level Crossing Removal package director Damian Brizzi told Star Weekly the road under rail option was chosen in order to retain the historical heritage of Sunbury Train Station.
“We are adding an extra track over the new bridge so that we allow better functionality for V-Line trains whilst also having two [Metro] trains stopped at the stations,” Mr Brizzi said.
“There are already traffic lane closures with preliminary works being done, they will continue.
“After this month, both east and west bound directions will face single lane closures until the second quarter of 2022 before a full road closure to lower the road under the rail line.
“By the end of 2022, we aim to have the road open and we’ll finish the landscaping and urban design work in 2023.”
Mr Brizzi said that no surrounding businesses would be forced to close during the major construction period of about four months.
“We’re aware of the challenges that have happened in the past, so we’re being very active with the public and the businesses working with them to get sufficient notice,” he said.
Sunbury MP Josh Bull said he was “thrilled” that the major construction efforts were getting under way.
“Our growing community will see the benefits for years to come from this critical project, and the many other transport projects underway or about to begin as part of the Victorian government’s investment in Sunbury’s future,” Mr Bull said.
“I’m thrilled that major construction on the Gap Road level crossing removal is about to start, bringing us a big step
closer to getting traffic flowing in Sunbury and improving safety for cyclists and pedestrians.”
