Boom gate removal kicks off

EARLY works have started to remove a level crossing at the Surf Coast Highway.

Construction at the site will duplicate the rail line and remove a congested Grovedale crossing, shifting the tracks south away from residents and building an elevated rail bridge.

State government data indicates that boom gates are down for up to 22 per cent of morning peak and 15 per cent of the evening peak for the road that carries around 36,000 vehicles each day.

The government said its design would create new green space between homes and the rail line and reduce flood risks.

A rail bridge would also make room for the future Bellarine Link – an extension of the Geelong Ring Road that would extend Baanip Boulevard to Barwon Heads Road, and eventually to the Bellarine Highway and Portarlington Road.

The Surf Coast Highway level crossing removal is part of the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds rail duplication, which is a joint state and federal government project aimed at improving service frequency for the city’s southern stations.

“This upgrade will mean even better service for Geelong commuters – and with early works commencing on the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds duplication, we’re building the train network Geelong commuters want and need,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.

A redesign of a five-way crossing at Fyans Street, South Geelong, and new South Geelong and Marshall stations are also part of the rail build.

The duplication project is due to finish in late 2024.