Hi, I’m Kat Theophanous - the Labor Member of Parliament for Northcote in the Victorian Legislative Assembly.
Hi, I’m Kat Theophanous - the Labor Member of Parliament for Northcote in the Victorian Legislative Assembly.
Work is underway to transform Preston - removing a massive four level crossings at Oakover, Bell, Cramer and Murray roads. This incredible rail project has so many benefits for our community.
New premium stations at Bell and Preston
Four level crossings gone so trains and cars can run smother and safer
A shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians to connect our suburbs
New open spaces with seating, nature play, sport and fitness areas, native gardens and more!
More local jobs and opportunities for local business
The level crossing will be gone for good by the end of 2022, with the new stations at Bell and Preston and significant new open space under the two-kilometre rail bridge ready for the community to enjoy in 2023.
I'll keep making sure we get the best out of this project as we get on with the job of improving our suburbs.
In addition to removing four dangerous level crossings, this project is set to create three MCGs of new open space for our suburbs.
Designs for these new open spaces have now been released landscaped areas with areas with more than 700 trees and around 150,000 grasses, shrubs and groundcover plants, as well as two new playgrounds and a shared walking and cycling path to connect the new Preston and Bell stations.
The designs feature plenty of multipurpose community spaces including an amphitheatre to the west of Bell Station, a barbecue area and casual seating.
New nature-based playgrounds encourage exploration and interaction for children of all ages. One playground will be located near Oakover Road and the other near Preston Oval.
The open space areas were designed in collaboration with the Preston Open Space Advisory panel, using feedback gained from the local community during consultation last year. Locals said they wanted multi-use spaces, more native plants, active spaces, community areas and improved safety.
For more information please head to levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
You can stay updated on the progress of construction and any local disruptions to roads, pathways and rail services at the Level Crossing Removal Project website – here.
A Fact Sheet with information in the Stages of Construction can also be found on the LXRP website – here.
You can also register for SMS construction alerts online or by texting PRESTON to 0428 581 917.