Work to re-open Ballarat’s Lydiard Street level crossing will begin next month following Heritage Victoria’s approval of plans for the installation of temporary boom gates.

Crews will commence major works at the level crossing at the earliest available opportunity following Thursday’s decision from Heritage Victoria.

Under the conditions of the permit, the damaged heritage-style swing gates will be removed, photographed and catalogued before being stored in a safe location in Wendouree, and will be subject to regular inspections to ensure they do not deteriorate.

Specialist contractors and V/Line technicians are expected to finish preparatory works on-site within the next three weeks before the installation of the temporary boom gates can proceed.

Crews have already completed non-destructive digging, service location and cabling works at the level crossing, and will spend the next few weeks installing critical signalling infrastructure and foundations for the temporary boom gates.

The Ballarat community will continue to be kept informed on the progress of these works as a construction schedule is finalised.

The Department of Transport and V/Line will also continue to work with a specialist heritage contractor and Heritage Victoria on long-term plans for the Lydiard Street level crossing.

As part of a $10.5 million investment by the Victorian Government, these plans will bring the level crossing up to modern safety standards while still paying tribute to the history of the Ballarat station precinct.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll

“We know that getting Lydiard Street re-opened to traffic is of the highest importance to the Ballarat community.”

“Approval of these plans means that we can get on with the job and re-open the road as quickly and as safely as possible.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“The Ballarat community will welcome the news that Heritage Victoria has approved plans to allow for the reopening of Lydiard Street.”

“The installation of temporary boom gates is an interim solution. The Andrews Labor Government is investing $10.5 million in this important project and once the final design for the crossing has been completed it will be shared with the community.”

Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“We recognise that the ongoing closure of Lydiard Street has been frustrating for the Ballarat community and we’re looking forward to commencing works to re-open the road safely.”