Level crossings removed in Melbourne were the focus of a two-week construction shutdown in Newport. Train services then resumed on the Werribee Line and the Altona Loop. The works related to two crossings described by the Victorian Government as “dangerous”. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Melbourne Unlocks Major Transport Bottleneck with New Elevated Rail Bridges Today
Photo: Victorian Government. Melbourne Unlocks Major Transport Bottleneck with New Elevated Rail Bridges Today

At the same time, Maddox Road is open to vehicles again. Passenger trains now use newly built elevated rail bridges above the road.

Newport level crossing works continue at Maddox Road

Still, the Maddox Road level crossing has not yet been fully removed. That work will be completed later this year. Until then, limited freight services will still use it each day.

For example, boom gates could stay down for about 50 minutes. Up to 48 trains passed through during the morning peak.

The freight rail bridge over Maddox Road will be completed in the coming months. Once finished, that bridge will permanently separate trains from road users. It will also make Newport boom gate free.

Meanwhile, a new pedestrian and cycling bridge was lifted into place over Champion Road. That work took place during the rail shutdown. The level crossing there was permanently closed in April.

New road and path connections in Newport

Separately, drivers can now use the new Akuna Drive link road. It lets them travel safely through the area and connect with Maddox Road.

In addition, works will begin on a pedestrian and cycle path along Railway Parade. The path will provide safe access to the new Champion Road bridge.

Also, the project includes a 400-metre path beside the rail line. It will run between Ross Road and Maddox Road. The route will provide a safe off-road connection from Newport Station to Altona North.

Also, the Werribee Line is set to receive two extra trains per hour. They will run in the morning and afternoon. Those additional services will be rolled out in the coming months.

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