Updated designs have been released for the new Croydon transport hub, giving locals a glimpse of what it will look like once complete.
Transport and Infrastructure minister Jacinta Allan announced the designs on Thursday 2 March, following community feedback and included the removal of the dangerous and congested level crossing at Coolstore Road, as well as a brand-new Croydon Station.
“Removing the Coolstore Road level crossing will be the next step in making the Lilydale Line level crossing free in 2025, paving the way for more services, more often in Melbourne’s east,” Ms Allen said.
About 10,000 vehicles and 100 train services use the level crossing every weekday, causing bottlenecks in the heart of Croydon’s shopping precinct.
As part of the new Croydon transport hub, the level crossing will be replaced by an elevated rail bridge to unify Croydon’s town centre, boost safety and make it easier for locals to travel across the area.
“When the Coolstore Road level crossing is gone it will make travelling through the heart of Croydon easier, whether you are in a car, cycling or walking, with new connections across the rail corridor and better access to the local bus network,” North-Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Sonja Terpstra said.
The new Croydon Station will also benefit the community with a modern precinct that includes elevated platforms, two new entrances, upgraded parking, safer drop-off zones on both sides of the tracks, as well as a kiosk area and waiting room for passengers.
The updated designs for the station now include bluestone paving, wooden seating and glazed brick buildings to complement the look and feel of the nearby Main Street shopping precinct.
New open space will also feature beneath the rail bridge – and will include two station forecourts, with better sightlines for commuters, more CCTV and upgraded lighting for a safer precinct. There will also be new cycling and walking paths and outdoor seating installed.
More than 70,000 trees, shrubs and grasses will be planted during landscaping works after the rail bridge has been completed.
Crews have also been working with the Croydon RSL to relocate the 100-year-old Croydon war memorial from the middle of the congested Coolstore Road roundabout to a safer, more accessible site for the community at Civic Square, Croydon.
The busy bus interchange is also home to 19 bus routes and will be revamped with better access for buses and safer links to the station for pedestrians.
Construction on the Croydon transport hub will start in autumn this year and will finish in 2025.
