The other station overhaul

STRONG levels of support for the proposed upgrades to Wendouree Railway Station have been received by the City of Ballarat.

In particular they have come from residents to the south of the station and land owners in the area interested in redevelopment opportunities for their land.

However, Council is still keen to hear from the community before this round of consultation ends on Friday, 5 April.

The draft master plan is based on discussions and feedback undertaken early in 2018 when 129 submissions were received by Council.

The upgraded Wendouree Station will include a second platform, additional track and a new accessible pedestrian overpass linking the two platforms.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the feedback from the community emphasised that reliability of train services was of utmost importance for Ballarat passengers.

“Locals were delighted when we extended services to Wendouree in 2009 and they’re equally happy that a second platform is planned for the extra services the government is providing,” Ms Addison said.

The upgrade of the Wendouree Station Precinct is a key project in the Ballarat Strategy.

The aim of the strategy is to ensure most of Ballarat’s residents can access key services, employment and transport within 10 minutes of where they live.

Ms Addison said she is blown away by the plans for Wendouree Station.

“I’m sure all local commuters will embrace the improvements planned by the government,” she said.

“The construction of a second platform at Wendouree is the next step as we grow and improve train services from Wendouree and Ballarat through to Melbourne.”

Congestion around Wendouree Station has been identified as a key issue.

The draft master plan proposes direct access from Gregory Street West and Gillies Street North and an improved entrance from Learmonth road which will significantly improve access.

Two additional car parks on the southern side of the station are a possibility although detailed design has not commenced yet.

Council is encouraging not just the community but also Wendouree businesses and station users to have their say before it is too late.

The government has consulted council and the wider community on the need for improved facilities at Wendouree Railway Station.

“I will always work constructively with council on projects where a project has widespread community support, like this one,” Ms Addison said.

While public transport funding is a state government issue, the municipality will continue to push for support to realise the master plan’s vision, including the proposed public realm improvements.

For more information go to mysay.ballarat.vic.gov.au.