By Bonny Burrows
News that sky rail may be the only option for the notoriously congested Clyde Road level crossing’s removal has divided Berwick residents although the State Government has said that no such decision has been made.
Metropolitan media reported on 14 July that sky rail was likely headed to Berwick because extensive underground cabling near the site “may make it impossible” to lower the train line beneath ground level.
Clyde Road, used by up to 18,800 drivers daily, is among 50 of the worst level crossings across Melbourne to be removed by 2022.
Contrary to media reports, the State Government told the Gazette on 17 July that it had not yet assessed if sky rail was the solution for the local crossing, nor had a construction start date been determined.
“We are still in the very early planning stages for the removal of the dangerous and congested level crossing at Clyde Road and we’re looking at all options for the site,” a spokeswoman for Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said.
Despite the government’s reassurance, Gembrook MP Brad Battin criticised the Andrews Government for “intentionally misleading” Victorians by “keeping his cheap sky rail option secret”.
Mr Battin said he had been overwhelmed with letters from residents who were fed up with the government’s “deceptive plans” for the Clyde Road crossing.
“The residents living along the railway line are angry about this and demand works stop and alternatives reconsidered,” Mr Battin said.
Gazette readers who responded to a social media callout by the paper were split on whether sky rail was suited to the booming suburb, but all agreed a solution – whether it was sky rail or an undergrown network – was needed.
And with the area being revamped into a major health and education precinct, the solution was needed now, they said.
“The crossing is an absolute nightmare. Ideally underground like Springvale would be a better option for this area, however beggars can’t be choosers – something has to be done,” Angela Webber said.
Some, including Gregg Clutterbuck, questioned why it has taken until now for alternatives to be considered.
“They should have gone under the train line years ago when they duplicated it. It was crazy not to invest in them,” Mr Clutterbuck said.
Others had major concerns about the impact sky rail could have on those residing along the railway, particularly in regards to privacy.
“Something has to be done but for those of us living along the train line, it (sky rail) would obviously impact our standard of living,” Shal Delaney said.
Alister Quinn agreed, saying sky rail would be good, but “put it in as far south of the current reservation as possible, to be closer to the industrial zone, rather than people’s houses”.
Ms Allan’s spokeswoman said the community would be consulted throughout the project.
“Removing the level crossing on Clyde Road in Berwick, in addition to 11 others on the Pakenham line, will reduce congestion, save lives, and improve public transport,” the spokeswoman said.
“We will continue to talk with the local community and council on this exciting project.”
It is understood that the Level Crossing Removal Authority has recently completed geotechnical, heritage and other site investigations to help inform the development of the project’s options.
These results are due to be shared with the City of Casey and community members for feedback in the near future.
