Coolstore Road level crossing and Croydon Station upgrade
Council voted on Monday 22 August, 2016 to authorise preliminary investigations into grade separation of the rail line at Coolstore Road, Croydon, in order to create a more accessible and connected Croydon Town Centre.
Council allocated $40,000 to engage a consultant to commence preliminary investigations into grade separation at the site.
The report was presented to Council at its meeting on Monday 26 June 2017. View the presentation below:
Grade separation will improve the safety of all commuters, enhance pedestrian and vehicle connections in the area and create more space for car parking. It will also allow for development of the station itself.
Council’s vision, Maroondah 2040 – Our future together, refers to the ability of our residents to live in walkable neighbourhoods and to have greater access to safe, efficient and sustainable transport modes that enhance liveability.
At the moment, Croydon Central shopping centre, in Kent Avenue, and Croydon Main Street are poorly placed to serve commuters directly, and they are inaccessible from each other, due to the barrier that the rail line provides.
Artist impression
Removing the level crossing would remove this barrier, resulting in safe access to each precinct and a direct, continuous and accessible path of travel between the two.
In addition, the grade separation will improve the safety of all commuters, enhancing pedestrian and vehicle connections in the area and possibly creating more space for car parking. It will also allow for development of the station itself.
Council has consulted with adjoining land owners, the Department of Transport, Public Transport Victoria, VicRoads and VicTrack, as part of the initial investigatory process.
The Victorian Government is currently undertaking a significant program of level crossing removals across the state. While the crossing at Coolstore Road, Croydon was not included in the initial 50 crossings identified for removal, Council will advocate strongly that it be added to the list, for safety and accessibility reasons.