Public wants gains from rail crossing removal

The Heatherton Road crossing.

By CASEY NEILL

PEDESTRIAN links, parking and trees are the top concerns for Noble Park residents surrounding level crossing removals.
The State Government released the Level Crossing Removal Project: Caulfield to Dandenong Consultation Report on Wednesday 25 November.
It’s a snapshot of feedback from the first round of community consultation on grade separation plans, including those at Heatherton, Chandler and Corrigan roads.
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the project bidders had received the feedback to inform their proposals and designs.
“People want these congested death-traps removed as soon as possible, but at the same time they want better cycling and pedestrian links and better parking, while still protecting local vegetation,” she said.
Noble Park participants expressed a strong appreciation for Ross Reserve, the RSL, the Douglas Street shopping precinct, open space at Heatherton Road and Mons Parade, remnant river red gum trees, and pedestrian links.
“Issues related mostly to current congestion and a need to improve accessibility, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists,” the report said.
“Community members want to see improved pedestrian access to Ross Reserve and safe crossings for cyclists.
“Pedestrian access to Noble Park Secondary College was also an issue that locals would like resolved.”