The Allan Labor Government is getting on with removing dangerous and congested level crossings across Melbourne - with Yarraville set to become boom gate free.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams today invited the community to have their say and help shape what will replace the Anderson Street level crossing, which will close to vehicles in 2029.
The design to close the Anderson Street level crossing will feature a new pedestrian and cyclist underpass to maintain safe connections across the rail line and improve access through Yarraville Village.
Anderson Street is one of the most dangerous level crossings on Melbourne's metropolitan rail network, with one fatality and four serious injuries since 2006, and 26 near misses involving trains, pedestrians and vehicles since 2016. As recently as 2023, a vehicle collided with a train at this intersection.
Boom gates are down for almost half of the morning peak, as up to 50 trains pass through the crossing - causing major congestion and delays for commuters. Expert assessments found that closing the level crossing entirely is the safest and most effective design solution due to the narrow rail corridor and dense urban environment.
The project also provides new opportunities to enhance Yarraville Village, making the precinct quicker, safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and local businesses - with no more waiting at boom gates and better connections to shops, cafés and community spaces.
Vehicles travelling to Yarraville Village from the west will still be able to cross the rail line via Somerville Road and Francis Street.
Across Melbourne's inner west, five level crossings are being removed - in Newport, Altona, Spotswood, and Yarraville - making local roads safer and less congested. When the West Gate Tunnel Project opens, a 24-hour truck ban will also be introduced on Hudsons Road between Melbourne Road and Booker Street.
Across Melbourne, the Labor Government is removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings by 2030, with 87 already gone for good.
Consultation is open until Sunday, 30 November at engage.vic.gov.au/project/lxrp-anderson-street.
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams
"We're getting on with making the Werribee Line boom gate free and investing in Melbourne's west to deliver safer, faster and more reliable transport connections."
"Removing the Anderson Street level crossing will transform Yarraville - changing the way locals live, work and travel for generations to come."
As stated by Member for Footscray Katie Hall
"Locals can help shape the new underpass design, creating a space that reflects Yarraville while removing the dangerous Anderson Street level crossing to cut congestion and improve safety."
