Alternate overpass plan

OVERPASS PLANS CONSIDERED… Submissions and feedback have been received by council officers for the new overpass as part of the Shepparton Railway Precinct Master Plan. Image: Supplied.

ENHANCING the connectivity between the city centre and the Shepparton Railway Station has been highlighted as the key objective of the Shepparton Railway Precinct Master Plan (2017), with a view to maximise accessibility and functionality to and from the city.

The railway connection project has attracted much discussion in recent times, since the announcement of the expected cost of the development of an overpass, which was anticipated to exceed $18 million dollars.

The overpass concept and shared linkages plans were released for public consultation and opinion for a period of six weeks from January 7, 2019 to February 18, 2019.

After considering the concerns regarding the project’s expense were expressed by those that submitted responses, council officers engaged Arcadis Pty Ltd to prepare an alternative concept plan for the overpass to take into consideration. The alternative plan reduced the estimated cost to $17.3 million.

On Tuesday, May 22 an ordinary council meeting was held and all submissions of feedback received were considered by council officers and included in a conversation report, which was received and noted at the meeting. This report is available to the public and can now be downloaded from council’s website.

Since this meeting, council have announced that they will use the alternative plan in any further discussions with rail authorities, while continuing to work collaboratively with the state government to improve access and connectivity between the railway station and other parts of the city.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe said “Council’s aim is to see the construction of a new railway station in preparation for the nine Velocity trains that will service Shepparton. These linkages are an important step in the process.”

Cr O’Keeffe said council were keen to promote additional access from the eastern residential areas, to Shepparton’s retail, health and education facilities.

“Council also want to support the redevelopment of land adjoining the railway line, to help transform the neglected area into a more enticing entrance to Shepparton.”

“We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the state government to achieve an attractive, safe and sustainable outcome for our community,” Cr O’Keeffe said.