Opposition Leader Matthew Guy today announced that if elected a Victorian Liberal National Coalition Government will spend over $300 million to duplicate the Hurstbridge railway line between Greensborough and Eltham.
Presently the Hurstbridge line is single track north of Greensborough and operates on an ‘automatic track control‘ system to prevent city-bound and Hurstbridge-bound trains from colliding on the single track. The single track means trains can only run in one direction at a time, reducing line capacity.
“Growing up in Montmorency, I understand how important it is to provide a better quality rail service for the north eastern suburbs than what exists today.
“A government I lead will give residents in Eltham, Montmorency and Greensborough the train services they deserve and will finally duplicate the railway line from Greensborough to Eltham,” Guy said.
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The duplication will see Montmorency station rebuilt as well as significant additions to car parking at Greensborough, Montmorency and Eltham stations.
Duplication to Eltham will mean more trains, more often for passengers on the Hurstbridge line, significantly increasing capacity. and will provide a better quality alternative to vehicle transport to the city.
Shadow Minister for Public Transport David Davis has been doing the rounds of Melbourne talkback radio this morning.
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“This duplication will help ease the commuter crush and relieve the congestion on both our rail and road network,” Davis said.
The duplication of the Hurstbridge line to Eltham is designed to compliment the Liberal Nationals’ plan to address road traffic congestion, particularly along Main Road and Fitzsimons Lane through the $5 billion Intersection Removal Program.
