Train line upgrade plan revealed for Warrnambool

The completion date for the project is late 2020, subject to planning and environmental approvals.

The upgrade includes building a new crossing loop, signalling upgrades between Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool, level crossing and pedestrian crossing upgrades and new train stabling facilities at Warrnambool.

Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said consultation with the community about the upgrades would start soon.

“Rail Projects Victoria will start consulting with communities on the projects they are overseeing, so locals can have their say, including on potential job opportunities on the projects,” Ms Allan said.

The upgrade will allow for a fifth daily return service between Warrnambool and Melbourne, and pave the way for VLocity trains on the line.

The state government’s Regional Rail Revival website said a new crossing loop on the line would make it easier for trains to pass each other, which helped services recover from unexpected delays more quickly, upgrades to level crossings along the line would make crossings safer for motorists and trains and the upgraded line would support rail freight and allow export products such as meat and dairy to be moved more quickly and reliably to the Port of Melbourne.

The late 2020 completion date did not impress member for South West Coast Roma Britnell, who said in March a government spokesperson made the claim works “could begin tomorrow if the federal government released funds”.

The federal government provided the cash for the upgrade on May 8, but Mrs Britnell said the work was yet to begin.

“Now we are being told it will be at least 2020 until the tracks are fixed,” Mrs Britnell said.

“That’s two more years of speed restrictions and two more years of delays.”