Toolern residents are set to benefit from a new train station near Ferris Road in Melton South.
The station will be based on the Ballarat line between Rockbank and Melton and is expected to be open by late 2019.
The state government last week announced that the new service will be built to accommodate Melbourne’s booming outer-western suburbs and the growth of the Atherstone community.
Toolern’s population is expected to jump to 55,000 people, from 1000 people, over the next decade.
The station will include a carpark, a bus interchange and bike storage. Melton locals can have their say on the station’s designs in the coming weeks.
Melton mayor Bob Turner said: “Council has been advocating to the state government for a new train station on behalf of our residents for years and we’re excited that plans and works are finally under way.
“A new train station at Toolern is fantastic news, and will help service the rapidly growing population.
“Access to close public transport will only provide greater incentive for more people to move to our thriving city.”
Lendlease’s communities business managing director Matthew Wallace said the new station was a game-changer.
“We acknowledge the state government’s vision in bringing this project to life.
“For our Atherstone residents this means a shorter commute time into the CBD, allowing them to spend more time with their family,” Mr Wallace said.
Dewi Sherry
