The recent Pakenham station design award has pushed the Melbourne rail hub firmly into view. As reported by Rail Express, the recognition covers both its architecture and the project’s strong sustainability performance.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Pakenham station design award for sustainable rail hub
Photo: Victorian Government

Why the Pakenham station design award matters?

Pakenham station in Melbourne has been recognised under the Victorian Premier’s Design Award, with the jury highlighting the open-air station precinct and its upgraded public realm.

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The wave-like roof that sweeps over the platforms was described as a “landmark gateway” to Gippsland, while the overall layout was noted as an example of sustainable station construction that improves access and comfort for passengers. The judges also pointed to the use of digital fabrication technology in delivering the distinctive station canopy.

This acknowledgement builds on the project’s result with the Infrastructure Sustainability Council, where it received one of the highest “As-Built” ratings. The station precinct achieved a score of 97.98, reflecting a 52.1 per cent reduction in energy use and a 35 per cent cut in emissions from materials. Taken together, these figures present the site as a benchmark for a sustainable railway station in Melbourne.

Elevated rail and new public spaces at Pakenham

The award-winning design is closely linked to the wider level crossing removals at McGregor Road, Main Street and Racecourse Road, a package of works that Railway Supply has covered within Melbourne’s broader rail upgrades. As part of this project, the rail line through Pakenham station was lifted above the roads, which made it possible to turn the ground level into a large open space. The precinct now offers walking and cycling paths, a barbecue area, a children’s playground, a half basketball court, a soccer net and outdoor exercise equipment, as outlined in a Victoria’s Big Build project update.

Pakenham station opened in 2024 together with the new East Pakenham Station, extending rail access in Melbourne’s south-east. Across the entire project, more than 330,000 grasses, trees and shrubs were planted, underlining the focus on greenery and long-term environmental benefits in the redesigned station precinct.

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