More frequent and reliable services for Ballarat line passengers will be a step closer after an Autumn construction blitz taking place as part of the Ballarat Line Upgrade.
A nine-day construction blitz will see major progress on all aspects of the project, which will be completed by the end of the year.
Coaches will replace V/Line trains for all or part of the journey while a 200-strong crew undertakes around-the-clock construction from the evening of Friday 22 March until Sunday 31 March.
During the construction blitz, work will continue on the Maddingley stabling facility as well as on station upgrades at Ballan, Bacchus Marsh and Rockbank, the new Cobblebank Station, and the Millbrook passing loop.
Track will be laid for the Millbrook passing loop and work will continue on building platforms and the overpass for the new Cobblebank Station.
Other work along the line in March will include major underground drainage being installed between Melton and Caroline Springs as part of the track duplication as well as the construction of footings for signalling gantries at Ballan and Millbrook.
Coaches will replace trains for the entire journey between Wendouree, Ballarat and Southern Cross Station from Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 March so crews can complete the work safely and efficiently.
On Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 March, coaches will replace Ararat trains for the entire journey.
Maryborough trains will continue to run to and from Ballarat, connecting with coaches to and from Southern Cross Station.
Passengers are asked to allow 45 minutes travel time and to plan ahead before travelling, with detailed information available at ptv.vic.gov.au.
The Ballarat Line Upgrade is being delivered as part of the $1.75 billion Regional Rail Revival, which will upgrade every regional rail line across Victoria and create 1000 jobs.
For more information about Victoria’s Big Build, visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan
“This construction blitz means we’re well and truly on the way to delivering the more frequent and reliable services passengers on the Ballarat line expect and deserve.”
As stated by Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne
“I urge passengers during this busy time to check and stay informed about changes to the network, and plan ahead to avoid long delays.”
