The Public Transport Users Association (PTUA) has condemned Vicroads for the lack of public consultation before releasing their concept plan for the Springvale Road Rail Separation Project. As the plan does not meet the basic design principles for a proper transport interchange, the PTUA has called for a complete redesign of the project.
“A railway station needs to be properly designed to serve the community, and should not be a costly, short-sighted inconvenience,” said Jeremy Lunn, the PTUA’s Outer East Convenor. “The designers and bureaucrats behind this project seem set on a less functional design.”
The PTUA has raised a number of concerns with the project in its present form:
- The railway station is too far west of Springvale Road, creating a situation where the eastern side of Nunawading will be disconnected from their station;
- The platform layout with two side platforms is based on an outdated model;
- The Nunawading Structure Plan developed by the City of Whitehorse and the State Government under its Melbourne 2030 initiative is based on the station being at its present location;
- Steep track gradients that will limit operating frequency and speeds if Rooks Road and Mitcham Road level crossings aren’t removed.
Mr Lunn said that the station platform should be located beneath Springvale Road with entrances on both sides of the road.
“This would also ensure that both sides of Springvale Road are well connected, rather than being separated by a six lane barrier. Locating the station under the road, would create a better situation for residents and traders on both sides of Springvale Road. They would not have to rely on a dark, inconvenient and potentially dangerous subway.”
“Furthermore, it would improve transfers between trains and buses, by eliminating the unnecessary walking distance created by the proposed subway.”
Mr Lunn further explained that an island platform would be much better than two side platforms.
“The current design of two side platforms is inconvenient and confusing to passengers. As a premium station, it should be built as an island platform serving both tracks to increase safety and maximise the availability of staff for all passengers.”
Mr Lunn said that land provision should then be made for a second island platform and additional tracks to cater for future expansion.
“This project should not just be about getting rid of the boom gates, but also the best outcome for public transport users, pedestrians and cyclists. The fact that they haven’t properly consulted with the public is deeply concerning and the outcome should be far better than what they’re proposing,” Mr Lunn concluded.