Station accessible to all as overpass opens

PEDESTRAIN traffic is flowing through Ballarat Station’s accessible overpass.

The overpass, which was officially opened on Monday morning, means people with a disability, and those with prams or luggage can smoothly move between train platforms one and two without having to go all the way around to the Lydiard Street crossing, or take the heritage stairs.

The metallic-coloured tunnel is see-through with lots of room for station passengers of all abilities to cross both ways at once, and there are lifts and stairs on each side.

Level Crossing Removal Project program director Thanasinh Boupha said construction has taken over 12 months.

“We are excited to open this overpass, meaning those with disability, luggage or prams can access both platforms by the overpass by lifts or stairs,” she said.

“What this has done has transformed Ballarat station to become fully accessible for those in need.

“We’ve worked with Heritage Victoria and the Office of the Victorian Government Architect to listen to the community around maintaining the station’s heritage outlook and being able to see through to the clocktowers and existing station.

“We have perforated, see-through screens so as you’re on the platform or on the overpass itself you can appreciate the heritage make-up of this beautiful station.”

Central Highlands Regional Advocacy Group and City of Ballarat Disability Advisory Committee member Rebecca Paton has been lobbying for an overpass at Ballarat Station for 15 years.

“It’s a case of universal design,” she said. “Suddenly, not only can my daughter – who is a wheelchair user – easily and safely get across from one side of the station to the other, including when there is a train coming, but so can people who use other mobility devices, have wheely luggage, or have children in prams.

“It’s also much more weather protected.

“My daughter is 20… and access at the station has been on the agenda for 15 years, so it’s very satisfying.

“We know it was difficult, expensive, and in some ways a controversial project, but it’s really important people are able to access public facilities… This makes life so much more easy for the entire community.”

The overpass weighs 65 tonnes and was craned into place in November.

Auto door and ramp upgrades to the station’s northern entrance have already been completed.

“Ballarat station was the last train station on the line to get accessibility upgrades… so this is great for Ballarat, great for the whole community, and great to make sure everybody can catch trains easily,” Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said.

Paton said advocates are now calling for a Travellers Aid base and a changing place facility on site, and Myki scanners near the overpass.