Designs for the Diggers Rest level crossings removal project have been unveiled

Two dangerous and congested level crossings in Diggers Rest will be permanently removed to help improve traffic flow and safety for locals in Melbourne’s growing north. 

The final designs for the new road bridges at Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road have been unveiled, and early works on the projects are due to commence in mid 2024. 

These road bridges will help improve the safety for the 8,000 motorists that get stuck at the level crossings for about 36 minutes each morning. 

The project at Old Calder Highway will include diverting the road to the west over the rail line near Stan Pyne Reserve and it will then curve to the north to connect with Diggers Rest-Coimadia Road. 

The road bridge will have two lanes and feature a raised cycle path over the rail line and upgraded lighting to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. 

Aerial view of the new road Bridge at Old Calder Highway (source: Engage Victoria)

This project will also include new pedestrian and cycling paths at Diggers Rest Station precinct along with new public open spaces for locals and commuters to enjoy. In addition, new longer bus bays are going to be built to the west of the station to service existing and future bus routes, with new shelters, seats and upgraded walking paths. 

Meanwhile, the new road bridge at Watsons Road has been designed to accommodate future residential developments and allow future pathways to be connected to the new pedestrian path on the bridge. 

Major construction is due to begin later this year, with the new road bridges completed and the level crossing permanently gone in 2025. 

“This project will transform the way locals live, work and travel in Diggers Rest by creating easier, safer access across the rail corridor and reducing congestion during peak hour. 

“The inclusion of community spaces, cycling paths and improved lighting and CCTV will ensure the project leaves a positive legacy for the local community,” Member for Sunbury Josh Bull said. 

Aerial view of the new rod bridge at Watsons Road (source: Engage Victoria)

The removal of the Diggers Rest level crossings is part of a broader development that will make the Sunbury Line level crossing free in 2025 as it connects to the Metro Tunnel, creating capacity for more trains to run more often on the line. 

The Victorian Government is removing 110 level crossings across the region by 2030, with about 75 already gone for good. 

“Removing the two level crossings at Diggers Rest will make the Sunbury Line level crossing free, paving the way for more services, more often when te Metro Tunnel opens in 2025. 

“We have removed 75 level crossing and we aren’t stopping, with 110 going by 2030, improving travel times across Melbourne and making local roads safer for drivers,” Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson said. 

Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Victoria’s Big Build – Level Crossing Removal Project; Engage Victoria; Infrastructure Magazine