Contractors pitch for work on rail upgrades

MAJOR upgrades to the Geelong and Warrnambool rail lines are a step closer with contractors shortlisted to deliver the projects.

The contractors, each with experience in rail project delivery, are a joint venture between Coleman Rail and Lendlease Engineering, a joint venture between CPB Contractors and UGL, and Downer EDI Works.

The next step will be technical and commercial workshops with the contractors, which will then submit detailed tenders outlining how they plan to deliver the projects.

The $114 million Warrnambool and $160 million Geelong line upgrade stage one are part of the $1.75 billion Regional Rail Revival program.

Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the Geelong upgrade, scheduled to start next year, would improve reliability and amenity for passengers.

“This is an important next step to get on with the first stage of the Geelong line upgrade,” Ms Allan said.

“The work around the level crossings between Geelong and the southwest are critical for local communities, and the shortlisting of potential contractors is an important step towards better services for passengers.

“A second platform and additional track at Waurn Ponds station will mean trains can pass each other at this point, reducing the impact of delays and allowing more Geelong services to be extended to Waurn Ponds in the future and better access to the station.”

The Warrnambool line upgrade would allow for a fifth daily return service to Melbourne and help pave the way for VLocity trains on the line.

Work is scheduled to start late this year and to finish late next year.