The Victorian Government has unveiled the final design for an upgraded Ballarat Station which will feature improved accessibility for passengers, while still respecting the heritage of the precinct.
The range of upgrades will provide significantly better accessibility to make it easier for people with disabilities as well as passengers with prams and luggage to get around the station and use public transport.
The upgraded Ballarat Station will include a new pedestrian overpass alongside lifts and stairs installed at both platforms. The northern entry to the station will also be upgraded with a new ramp and stairs as well as improved lighting.
The final designs were shaped thanks to community feedback, with further architectural work completed to reduce visual impacts of the new accessible overpass on the existing station buildings.
“We have worked closely with the local community to refine the designs to protect the historical significance of Ballarat Station without compromising accessibility,” Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson said.
The height of the overpass was reduced and balconies were added in the lift landings to provide look-out points with scenic views of the historical station – which was opened in 1862.
The colour palette of the overpass was also changed to make it more resistant to discolouration from dust and dirt.
Meanwhile, ‘outriggers’ that support the stairwell canopy will have a unique design that references the existing trusses inside the station building while the balustrade will have a contemporary take on the heritage stair overpass inside the building.
The release of the final designs follows community consultation and engagement with Heritage Victoria and the Office of the Victorian Government Architect.
Construction is due to begin next year and be completed in 2026.
The improvements to Ballarat Station builds on the Ballarat Line Upgrade, which delivered an additional 135 weekly services for Ballarat and growing communities along the line. Trains now run every 20 minutes on average during peak times.
“With construction on track to start next year, we are getting on with delivering this important accessibility upgrade project for Ballarat Station that will make moving between platforms easier for all users,” Member for Ballarat Juliana Addison said.
“This important upgrade will make it easier for everyone to navigate the station, with lift access to both platforms and a new northern entrance,” Member for Eureka Michaela Settle said.
Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Victoria’s Big Build (1, 2); Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Infrastructure Magazine