Casey Council says it will work with the community to ensure accessible toilet facilities are included at the new Merinda Park train station following the release of new designs.
It comes as the State Government announced a rebuild of the station on the Cranbourne line with works to begin in August as sections of the old platform were removed.
Casey Council chair of administrators Noelene Duff welcomed for the design improvements released by the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) for the new Merinda Park Station but said council officers had heard from members in the community, including advocates for people with disabilities, calling for public toilet amenities at Merinda Park Station.
“We welcome the design improvements to the new Merinda Park Station and the opportunity for the community to see what is being planned. However, council has identified the need for accessible toilet facilities, which are not yet included in the station design,” Ms Duff said.
“Updating the designs to include this necessary convenience would ensure the rail precinct is better equipped now and into the future.”
Merinda Park Station was rated the fifth worst performing station in the state in RACV’s On Track Survey 2017 for issues such a lack of toilets and inadequate seating.
The latest changes to the design include two platforms to accommodate the duplicated tracks, a new pedestrian underpass with lifts, ramps and stairs to access the platforms and covered waiting areas. Landscaping and vegetation enhancements are also planned with council requesting as much tree canopy cover as possible.
The works will be staged to keep the station as operational as possible during construction.
Meanwhile, Casey Council says major rail projects taking shape in Casey including a new design for Hallam Station were set to be a “significant boost” to the community and “ensure that our growing community is able to move around more efficiently”.
The Clyde Road Level Crossing Removal project in Berwick is also ramping up with a new underpass being built.
“Council and the community contributed feedback to help support the best outcome for the design and use of the new rail precinct which will include a new bus interchange and more carparking,” Ms Duff said.
“We see the two key pieces of infrastructure missing from the modern and efficient rail precinct plan is a new, premium Berwick Station to replace the ageing one and a pedestrian rail bridge over busy Clyde Road.”
Council will continue to advocate on behalf of the community for quality design, minimal disruptions and support for local businesses and residents.
“Council is keen to continue to work together with all levels of Government on all the Big Build projects to help see the best outcomes realised for the community,” Ms Duff said.
