UPDATE: Plans to extend platforms at Ardeer Station have been **scrapped** following the state government’s decision to fast-track the Melton Line upgrade. This significant change means that Ardeer will not accommodate the planned nine-carriage VLocity trains, which were intended to improve service capacity.
The government announced that platform extensions will still proceed at Deer Park, Caroline Springs, Rockbank, and Cobblebank stations. However, the situation at Ardeer is complicated. Authorities confirmed that extending its platforms would require a complete station rebuild due to **limited space** and **curved configurations**. This decision comes as a part of their commitment to enhancing the rail network in Melbourne’s west.
Ardeer station’s current location is within a potential rail corridor, indicating that any work done now would become obsolete when it is eventually relocated north. The state government assures that service levels at Ardeer will not be affected after the Melton line upgrades are completed.
Brimbank Mayor Cr Thuy Dang expressed disappointment over the news, stating, “Ardeer is located close to the Sunshine superhub and services rapid population growth corridors in Melbourne’s west.” She emphasized the importance of the electrification of the Melton line for improving commuter transport services, which is crucial for the region’s growth.
The new Melton Station, featuring four platforms for Ballarat train services, is scheduled to open next year as part of the expedited Melton line project. This upgrade will enable dedicated platforms for services running to and from Melton, including the longer nine-carriage trains.
In addition, a new stabling yard will be constructed at Cobblebank, facilitating the operation of these longer VLocity trains. Construction for the stabling yard and platform extensions is expected to commence in early 2024, with the upgraded services projected to launch in 2027.
Cr Dang urged the Victorian government to allocate a budget and timeline for the necessary construction works to electrify and extend the metropolitan train network to Melton and Wyndham Vale. “Without a committed budget and clear timeline, we are concerned that the Ardeer area will miss out on improved public transport access for years to come,” she warned.
This latest development in the Melton line upgrade signifies a crucial moment for Melbourne’s public transport system, impacting thousands of commuters and highlighting the need for continued investment in infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation as the community awaits further announcements regarding the future of Ardeer Station and the broader Melton line improvements.
