Wangaratta railway station is set to be upgraded as part of the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Inland Rail project, with construction beginning in June 2023.
At Wangaratta there is not enough clearance under the two station footbridges or Green Street bridge, meaning substantial works are required to facilitate the safe passage of double-stacked trains.
With construction partner McConnell Dowell, ARTC will replace the Cusack and Docker Street footbridges with a pedestrian underpass, relocate the existing track on the eastern side of the station and construct a new platform, and replace the existing Green Street bridge.
Cusack St bridge will be the first to be removed, with elements of its heritage and design incorporated into the new underpass.
Further vegetation clearing will take place to allow for the pedestrian underpass.
The station will remain open to vehicles, pedestrians, and commuters throughout all construction activities.
Pedestrian access from Norton Street to Cusack Street will be maintained across the Docker Street footbridge during construction.
Green Street bridge will be closed in early 2024 for about six months, with detours in place.
ARTC General Manager Victoria and South Australia Projects, Ed Walker, said it’s an exciting time for the project in Wangaratta.
“We will modernise the station precinct and make it a space the community can be proud of.
“We’ve listened to community and stakeholders during the design stages and heard their feedback on heritage, safety, accessibility, and connectivity has been incorporated into the Wangaratta project, along with the requirements of our heritage and environment approvals,” Mr Walker said.
“We are working hard with our construction partner, McConnell Dowell to minimise the impact of works on the community.
“To stay up to date on the project, we encourage residents to sign up for regular email updates on our website.”
Featured image: A render of the upgraded station. Image provided by ARTC.