Geelong and Warrnambool railway work tenders released

EXPRESSIONS of interest are being sought for major upgrades to the Warrnambool and Geelong railway line.

The multi-million-dollar contract would include a major upgrade to Waurn Ponds Station, as well as upgrades along the Warrnambool line to enable extra services as well as the use of VLocity trains.

Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals leader and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, and Minster for Public Transport Jacinta Allan announced the start of the tender process last
week.

“We’re strongly encouraging business, including those in the Geelong and south west regions, to register their interest in carrying out the work,” Mr McCormack said.

“The design and construction work for the upgrades will provide a great opportunity for local contractors and suppliers to get involved, bringing wider benefits for Geelong and south west Victoria.”

Ms Allan said the Warrnambool Line Upgrade would allow for a fifth daily return service between Warrnambool and Melbourne, and help pave the way for VLocity trains on the line.

“A new crossing loop on the line will make it easier for trains to pass each other, helping services recover more quickly from unexpected delays, and signalling upgrades will help boost reliability.

“Upgrades to level crossings along the line will make crossings safer for motorists and train passengers. Work on these is being undertaken by V/Line and is already under way.”

The Geelong Line Upgrade will include a second platform and additional track at Waurn Ponds Station, so trains can pass each other at this point on the line and allow more Geelong services to be extended to Waurn Ponds.

A new pedestrian link at the station will create a user-friendly, safe and accessible connection for station users.

Planning and site investigations for the Warrnambool line upgrade are under way, with construction scheduled to begin by late 2019 and be completed by late 2020.

Work on the Geelong line upgrade is scheduled to begin by 2020, with a target completion date of 2021.

For more information about the project, head to regionalrailrevival.vic.gov.au.