Lydiard Street rail gates options unveiled

COMMUNITY feedback is being sought on options to return elements of the old swing style replica rail gates to the Ballarat Station precinct.

The southern swing gates were destroyed by a train crash in 2020 when they failed to close before a Wendouree bound train crashed into them.

After that, the level crossing at Lydiard Street North was closed for months before boom gates were installed at the site.

Now the Department of Planning and Transport are seeking public input for two possible long-term ways of displaying the older style swing gates.

The two options are placing the replicas of old gates near the level crossing or somewhere else in the station precinct.

Five solutions were initially considered, but after assessment by specialists three were deemed to not be suitable due to safety and maintenance concerns.

They included returning the swing gates to a functional state or closing the level crossing permanently and putting the gates on display across the street.

“The Department of Transport and Planning and V/Line are dedicated to providing a public transport network that is safe, efficient and accessible, meeting the expectations of the growing population in Ballarat,” said Michael Bailey, regional director Grampians, Department of Transport and Planning.

“The replica heritage gates are an important piece of Victoria’s rail history and there is a shared commitment to respecting and honouring their future.

“That’s why we’re actively encouraging the community to share their views on the safe management of the crossing and a respectful future for the gates.”

Public feedback will be gathered and presented to Heritage Victoria later this year.

The gates on the north side remain undamaged and were put into storage with boom gates installed after much waiting in late 2021.

Over $10.5 million was allocated in last year’s State budget to find a long-term solution to this issue.

The Lydiard Street Level Crossing community survey is open now until 16 April at engage.vic.gov.au.