By Mikayla van Loon
Yarra Valley rail commuters will be able to use the new Lilydale and Mooroolbark train stations from tomorrow, with the final touches being made today before the first train pulls in.
Although they were due to open yesterday, the Level Crossing Removal Authority pushed the deadline back by two days to ensure everything is ready to go.
Crews have worked around the clock to get the platforms ready for passengers.
“A team of over 650 workers have worked 24/7 for over two months to open the two new stations and get trains running months ahead of schedule and before the busy Christmas trading period,” a statement read.
The elevated platforms have had the station canopies installed, which will provide 70 per cent coverage for commuters. The new station buildings, stairwells and lifts have also been built.
Designed to enhance the local environment, the stations include earthy weathered steel, zinc and Victorian quarried stone.
Both Mooroolbark and Lilydale stations will reduce water usage by 70 per cent through the collection of rainwater on site and will obtain 30 per cent of the total energy from renewable energy sources.
Passengers will be able to catch the first trains from the stations on 19 November.
Mooroolbark Station users can enter the new station from Brice Avenue. Lilydale Station users can enter the new station from the main entrance on William Street East. The new bus interchange at Lilydale will be open in its new location on William Street.
Construction won’t be entirely complete until 2022 but the stations will be safe and usable as of the end of the week.
The commuter car park in Mooroolbark will also remain under construction.
In Lilydale, John Street will have some road closures and traffic management in place at times until Friday 19 November, while William Street East and West will be closed until Friday 19 November. There is pedestrian access to businesses on William Street East.
Manchester Road in Mooroolbark will have changed traffic conditions until Wednesday 17 November, while Brice Avenue’s eastbound lane will be closed between Manchester Road and George Street until Friday 19 November. Access to the shops and car parking will be maintained.
Sherlock Road will have intermittent stoppages and traffic management in place at times until Wednesday 17 November.
