:Cranbourne line
{{Short description|Passenger rail service in metropolitan Melbourne, Victoria, Australia}}
{{about|the Metro Trains Melbourne service|the physical railway itself|South Gippsland railway line}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2023}}
{{Use Australian English|date=January 2012}}
{{Infobox rail service
| name = Cranbourne
| color = {{rcr|Melbourne|Cranbourne}}
| logo = {{ric|Melbourne|Cranbourne|size=100px}}
|image=High Capacity Metro Train arriving at Hughesdale station — July 2022.jpg|image_size=250px|image_alt=High Capacity Metro Train arriving at elevated Hughesdale station, Melbourne.|caption=A Cranbourne line High Capacity Metro Train arriving at Hughesdale station.| type = Commuter rail
| status = Operational
| system = Melbourne railway network
| locale = Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| predecessor = {{Plainlist|
- Tooradin (1888–1890)
- Loch (1890–1891)
- Leongatha (1891–1892)
- Port Albert (1892–1987)
- Welshpool (1987–1990)
- Toora (1990–1992)
- Koo Wee Rup (1992–1993)
}}
| first = {{Start date and age|1888|10|1|df=y}} as South Gippsland line
| last =
| successor =
| operator = Metro Trains
| formeroperator = {{Plainlist|
- Victorian Railways (VR) (1888–1974)
- VR as VicRail (1974–1983)
- STA (V/Line) (1983–1989)
- PTC (V/Line) (1989–1995)
- PTC (The Met) (1995–1998)
- Bayside Trains (1998–2000)
- M>Train (2000–2004)
- Connex Melbourne (2004–2009)
}}
| ridership =
| ridership2 =
| website =
| start = {{rwsa|Flinders Street}}
| stops = 24 (including City Loop stations)
| end = {{rwsa|Cranbourne}}
| distance = {{Convert|43.920|km|abbr=on}}
| journeytime = 59 minutes (not via City Loop)
| frequency = {{blist|10–16 minutes weekdays peak|20 minutes weekdays off-peak and weekend daytime|30 minutes weekend nights|60 minutes early weekend mornings|Double frequency daytime between Flinders Street and Dandenong in combination with Pakenham line|Shuttle-only operation at nighttime between Dandenong and Cranbourne}}
| line_used = {{ubl|Orbost|Port Albert}}
| class =
| seating =
| baggage =
| otherfacilities =
| stock = HCMT
| gauge = {{Track gauge|1600 mm}}
| owners = VicTrack
| routenumber =
| maintenance =
| map = {{Cranbourne Metro Service|inline=yes}}
| map_state = collapsed
}}
The Cranbourne line is a commuter railway line in the city of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.{{Cite web |title=Cranbourne Line |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/route/ |access-date=19 January 2023 |website=Public Transport Victoria |language=en-GB}} Operated by Metro Trains Melbourne, it is the city's second longest metropolitan railway line at {{convert|44|km}}. The line runs from Flinders Street station in central Melbourne to Cranbourne station in the south-east, serving 24 stations via the City Loop, South Yarra, Caulfield, Oakleigh, and Dandenong.{{Cite web |date=3 September 2017 |title=Metro's paper timetables mess |url=https://www.danielbowen.com/2017/09/04/metro-paper-timetable-issues/ |access-date=9 December 2022 |website=Daniel Bowen}} The line operates for approximately 20 hours a day (from approximately 4:00 am to around midnight) with 24 hour service available on Friday and Saturday nights. During peak hour, headways of up to 5 to 15 minutes are operated with services every 15–20 minutes during off-peak hours. Trains on the Cranbourne line run with a seven-car formation operated by High Capacity Metro Trains.{{Cite web |title=High Capacity Metro Trains Project, Victoria, Australia |url=https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/high-capacity-metro-trains-project-victoria/ |access-date=9 December 2022 |website=Railway Technology}}
The line originally opened in 1888 branching off from the Gippsland line at Dandenong as the South Gippsland line.{{Cite web |date=25 December 2022 |title=The railway that brought an end to the pioneering days |url=https://www.leongathahistory.org.au/the-railway-that-brought-an-end-to-the-pioneering-days/ |access-date=25 December 2022 |website=Leongatha & District Heritage Society}} Services operated as far as Port Albert, with extensive branch lines featuring on the non-electrified network. The line(s) were built to serve the regional townships of Cranbourne, Koo Wee Rup, and Leongatha, amongst others. The line was closed in 1993 after a decline in usage, however, the line was reopened and electrified to Cranbourne in 1995 as part of the "Building Better Cities" program.{{Cite web |last=Millar |first=Royce |date=19 May 2006 |title=Election promise runs off the rails |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/election-promise-runs-off-the-rails-20060519-ge2cel.html |access-date=28 December 2022 |website=The Age |language=en}}{{cite book |author=Lyndsay Neilson |editor-first1=John |editor-last1=Butcher |title=Appendix 1: Funding Allocation, Victorian Area Strategies |url=http://epress.anu.edu.au/anzsog/auc/mobile_devices/ch08s15.html#d0e3496 |access-date=1 November 2010 |work=The 'Building Better Cities' program 1991–96: a nation-building initiative of the Commonwealth Government |year=2008 |publisher=epress.anu.edu.au|doi=10.22459/AUC.04.2008 |isbn=9781921313776 |doi-access=free }} Significant growth has occurred since its reopening, with proposals to extend the line two stations to Clyde receiving support amongst other works on the corridor.
Since the 2010s, due to the heavily utilised infrastructure of the Cranbourne line, significant improvements and upgrades have been made. A $1 billion upgrade of the corridor between Dandenong and Cranbourne is currently under construction, with improvements including the removal of all level crossings, rebuilding stations, and the duplication of {{convert|8|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} of track. Other works taking place have included the replacement of sleepers, the introduction of new signalling technology, the introduction of new rolling stock, and other works associated with the Metro Tunnel project. These projects have improved the quality and safety of the line, and will be completed by the opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2025.
History
= 19th century =
{{Main|South Gippsland railway line}}
In 1888, the Cranbourne line (then known as the South Gippsland railway line) began operations, splitting off from the main line to Gippsland at Dandenong with an extension to Cranbourne. The line was progressively extended to Koo Wee Rup, Nyora, and Loch in 1890, Korumburra and Leongatha in 1891, and Welshpool, Alberton, and Port Albert in 1892.{{Cite web |title=Leongatha {{!}} Victorian Places |url=https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/leongatha |access-date=25 December 2022 |website=www.victorianplaces.com.au}} From its opening until 2022, the Cranbourne line was fully single tracked from Dandenong to its terminus, and was only electrified upon its reopening in the 1990s.{{Cite web |last=Victoria’s Big Build |date=13 February 2022 |title=Cranbourne Line duplicated, Greens Road crossing removed and new station open |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/news/level-crossing-removal-project/cranbourne-line-duplicated-greens-road-removed-station-open |access-date=31 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build |language=en}}
= 20th century =
== Regional services ==
{{Main|South Gippsland railway line}}
File:South-Gippsland-line.png in the 20th century]]
Throughout the early to mid 20th century, the South Gippsland railway line continued to open additional branch lines, including to Woodside, Barry Beach, Welshpool Jetty, Outtrim, Wonthaggi, and Strzelecki.{{Cite web |title=Great Southern Rail Trail |url=https://www.gsrt.com.au/history |access-date=25 December 2022 |website=greatsouthernrt |language=en}} All of these branch lines ceased their operations between the mid and late 20th century due to a decrease in patronage. On 6 June 1981, passenger services ceased operation to Yarram. In 1984, the line re-opened with services to Leongatha, until its second closure on 24 June 1993. The Barry Beach freight service ceased operations in 1992, with the line beyond Leongatha booked out of service on 30 June 1992, thus, effectively ending all traffic on the line beyond Leongatha.{{Victorian Rail-Newsrail|title=Works|month=10|year=1992|page=330}} V/Line passenger services continued to Cranbourne till its electrification, with freight operations continuing into the late 1990s with freight services to the Koala siding.
== Metropolitan services ==
In 1995, the Australian Government launched the "Building Better Cities" program, designed to redevelop Australian cities with better communities and infrastructure. The $27 million project included a rebuilt Dandenong station, a new station in Cranbourne North (Merinda Park station), the introduction of three position signalling, and electrification of the signal tracked corridor.{{cite book |last=Fiddian |first=Mark |title=Trains, Tracks, Travelers. A history of the Victorian Railways |publisher=South Eastern Independent Newspapers |year=1997 |isbn=1-875475-12-5 |page=154}} These works resulted in the re-opening of a section of the South Gippsland line to passengers which became known as the Cranbourne Line.
Freight services continued on part of the South Gippsland line till 1998, when services from the Koala Siding were suspended.{{Victorian Rail-Newsrail|title=Farewell – The Sand Train|month=2|year=1998|pages=71–76}} With these changes, the line became unused beyond Cranbourne. The exception was a tourist railway operation, which commenced operation between Nyora and Leongatha, and later became known as the South Gippsland Railway till its closure in January 2016.{{cite news |date=19 January 2016 |title=Off the rails – South Gippsland Tourist Rail disbands |work=South Gippsland Sentinel Times |url=http://sgst.com.au/2016/01/off-the-rails-south-gippsland-tourist-rail-disbands/ |access-date=19 September 2016 |archive-date=16 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170216221048/http://sgst.com.au/2016/01/off-the-rails-south-gippsland-tourist-rail-disbands/ |url-status=dead }}
= 21st century =
{{Main|Cranbourne railway line#future}}
In 2008, a package of works were unveiled to upgrade the Cranbourne line to improve frequencies and the quality of service. A new siding was constructed at Cranbourne, with a capacity of 6 trains, in order to increase frequencies without having to duplicate the line.{{cite web |title=Media Release: CRANBOURNE STATION TRAIN STABLING PROJECT ON TRACK |url=http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/955cbeae7df9460dca256c8c00152d2b/16a31250939e85d6ca257410007a9d5b!OpenDocument |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080722063902/http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/955cbeae7df9460dca256c8c00152d2b/16a31250939e85d6ca257410007a9d5b%21OpenDocument |archive-date=22 July 2008 |access-date=24 April 2008 |work=Minister for Public Transport Media Release |publisher=dpc.vic.gov.au}} In addition to the new siding, the $37 million project also brought a major upgrade to Cranbourne station, which included the construction of an enclosed waiting room, new platform shelters, new toilet facilities, formalised paved pedestrian access, an upgraded bus interchange, and increased security.{{Cite web |last=Bichel |first=Lia |date=13 November 2008 |title=$37m train transformation |url=https://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2008-11-13/37m-train-transformation/ |access-date=19 January 2023 |website=Cranbourne Star News |language=en-US}}
In 2012, Lynbrook station opened after two years of construction works. The station serves the suburbs of Lynbrook and Lyndhurst, with the station featuring accessible platforms, car parking facilities, and bus stops.{{Cite web |date=22 March 2012 |title=New 22 April timetable boosts Metro train trips by 353 a week – Premier of Victoria |url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/3342-new-22-april-timetable-boosts-metro-train-trips-by-353-a-week.html |access-date=25 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322085655/https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/3342-new-22-april-timetable-boosts-metro-train-trips-by-353-a-week.html |archive-date=22 March 2012 }} In 2014, the level crossing at Springvale Road, Springvale, was removed by lowering the railway into a trench. Prior to this, the level crossing was considered the most dangerous in Victoria.{{Cite web |last=Carey |first=Adam |date=22 April 2014 |title=Split-level luxury arrives at Springvale station, at $159 million |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/splitlevel-luxury-arrives-at-springvale-station-at-159-million-20140422-372dt.html |access-date=30 December 2022 |website=The Age |language=en}} The removal consisted of a {{convert|1.6|km||abbr=on}} trench and the construction of a new premium station at Springvale.{{Cite web |title=Springvale Level Crossing Removal - Mcconnell Dowell |url=https://www.mcconnelldowell.com/projects/springvale-level-crossing |access-date=31 December 2022 |website=www.mcconnelldowell.com}}
In September 2019, Qube Holdings commenced operating a daily service on a short section of the line, hauling containerised cement to the Kimberly-Clark siding at Dandenong South.{{Victorian Rail-Newsrail|title=Qube Dandenong Cement (9571/9572)|month=1|year=2020|page=25}}
Future
= Metro Tunnel =
{{Main|Metro Tunnel}}
File:Melbourne_Metro_Rail_Tunnel_route_map_blue.svg.]]
The 2012 Network Development Plan identified the need for a north–south tunnel connecting the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines to the Sunbury line.{{Cite web |title=Growing Our Rail Network 2018–2025 |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/footer/legal-and-policies/growing-our-rail-network-2018-2025/ |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=Public Transport Victoria}} In 2017, the Metro Tunnel began construction, involving the construction of five new underground stations, twin {{convert|9|km|adj=on}} tunnels, and other associated infrastructure improvements. Leaving the existing Cranbourne line alignment before South Yarra station, new stations will be built at Anzac, Town Hall (with connections to Flinders Street station), State Library (with connections to Melbourne Central), Parkville, and Arden, before continuing onto the Sunbury line. These works will be completed by 2025, and upon completion, will create a singular rail line from Cranbourne and Pakenham to Sunbury and Melbourne Airport (from 2029).{{Cite web |last=Victoria's Big Build |date=28 November 2022 |title=About the Metro Tunnel Project |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/metro-tunnel/about |access-date=9 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build}}
= Melbourne Airport rail link =
{{Main|Melbourne Airport rail link}}
The Melbourne Airport rail link will involve the construction of a {{convert|27|km|adj=on}} line from Sunshine to a new station at Melbourne Airport.{{Cite web |last=Jacks |first=Rob Harris, Timna |date=20 November 2020 |title=Melbourne Airport trains will run through the Metro tunnel every 10 minutes |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-airport-trains-will-run-through-the-metro-tunnel-every-10-minutes-20201120-p56gl2.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505065158/https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-airport-trains-will-run-through-the-metro-tunnel-every-10-minutes-20201120-p56gl2.html |archive-date=5 May 2022 |access-date=5 May 2022 |website=The Age |language=en}} Connected via the Metro Tunnel, services will operate from the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines{{Cite web |last=Premier of Victoria |date=29 March 2021 |title=First look at long-awaited Melbourne Airport Rail |url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/first-look-long-awaited-melbourne-airport-rail |access-date=5 May 2022 |archive-date=8 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230208072200/https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/first-look-long-awaited-melbourne-airport-rail |url-status=live }} through the tunnel before splitting off at Sunshine to either Sunbury or Melbourne Airport. Construction of the line will involve the renovation of Sunshine station to allow for additional platforms, construction of new track, and the addition of two new stations at Keilor East and Melbourne Airport.{{Cite web |last=Victoria's Big Build |date=30 October 2022 |title=Melbourne Airport Rail overview |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/melbourne-airport-rail/about/project-overview |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build}} Construction started in 2022 with services expected to begin in 2029.{{Cite web |last=Victoria's Big Build |date=8 October 2022 |title=Melbourne Airport Rail timeline |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/melbourne-airport-rail/about/project-timeline |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build}}
= Clyde extension =
{{Main|Clyde railway station, Victoria}}Services on the South Gippsland line were fully suspended in 1981 due to limited passenger numbers on the route. Since the closure, calls have been made to reopen the line to the suburb of Clyde. Reopening of the line to Clyde was first promised by the Australian Labor Party during the 1999 and 2002 state election campaigns, but were dumped before the 2006 election.{{cite web |author=LIZ BELL |date=27 October 2008 |title=Focus on public transport |url=http://cranbourne.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/focus-on-public-transport/1344148.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20110821203203/http://cranbourne.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/focus-on-public-transport/1344148.aspx |archive-date=21 August 2011 |access-date=4 November 2008 |work=Cranbourne Journal |publisher=cranbourne.yourguide.com.au}} In November 2003, a "Trainlink" bus service was introduced as an alternative, meeting each train at Cranbourne station and running on a largely one-way loop through Cranbourne East.{{cite web |date=7 November 2003 |title=NEW CRANBOURNE BUS SERVICES PUT THE TRAIN ON YOUR DOORSTEP |url=http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/798c8b072d117a01ca256c8c0019bb01/0696403d0364473eca256dd900777ac3!OpenDocument |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110403223840/http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/798c8b072d117a01ca256c8c0019bb01/0696403d0364473eca256dd900777ac3!OpenDocument |archive-date=3 April 2011 |access-date=4 November 2008 |work=Media Release: OFFICE OF THE PREMIER |publisher=www.legislation.vic.gov.au}} The Bracks governments Victorian Transport Plan, released in 2008, listed the extensions and associated works as a "medium term" project, which was estimated to cost $200 million.{{cite web |title=Cranbourne East Extension |url=http://www4.transport.vic.gov.au/vtp/projects/cranbourneeast.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090711155547/http://www4.transport.vic.gov.au/vtp/projects/cranbourneeast.html |archive-date=11 July 2009 |access-date=5 July 2012 |work=Victorian Transport Plan |publisher=www4.transport.vic.gov.au}} Despite the political promise to revive the railway line for freight and passenger services by the Bracks-led Labor government in 1999, the project was abandoned in 2008 by his successor John Brumby.{{Cite web |last=Rees |first=Brendan |date=6 November 2018 |title=Slow train to Clyde |url=https://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2018-11-06/slow-train-to-clyde/ |access-date=3 August 2023 |website=Cranbourne Star News |language=en-US}}
In 2013, as part of Public Transport Victoria's Network Development Plan for metropolitan rail, an extension of the Cranbourne line to Clyde was earmarked to begin in the "long-term", which would equate to at least over the next 20 years.[https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/assets/PTV-default-site/footer/legal-and-policies/growing-our-rail-network-2018-2025/PTV_Network-Development-Plan_Metropolitan-Rail_2016update_AccessibleVersion.DOC PTV- Network Development Plan] In January 2018, City of Casey advised it would need almost $3 billion worth of rail and road infrastructure projects to continue development of the region, including the extension of the metropolitan train from Cranbourne to Clyde and the duplication of the line between Dandenong and Cranbourne. In the lead up to the 2018 state election, the incumbent Andrews government announced the Cranbourne Line Upgrade, a project involving the duplication of 8 km of track between Dandenong and Cranbourne, a rebuilt Merinda Park station, the construction of a new rail connection for the Port Rail Shuttle Network, and the removal of all remaining level crossings on the corridor.{{Cite web |date=25 October 2022 |title=Cranbourne Line Upgrade community update – September 2019 |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/library/level-crossing-removal-project/rail/clu/fact-sheets/cranbourne-line-upgrade-community-update-september-2019 |access-date=26 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build |language=en}} Andrews argued that this project was required if an extension to Clyde was to be constructed. Opposition leader Matthew Guy instead promised that he would extend the Cranbourne line to Clyde if he won the election.{{Cite web |title=Matthew Guy pledges $487m to extend Cranbourne train line to Clyde |url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/matthew-guy-pledges-487m-extension-of-cranbourne-line-to-clyde/17ecd2f6-b80b-4f68-8532-33a53d4ec872 |access-date=26 December 2022 |website=www.9news.com.au|date=11 July 2018 }}
Again in the lead up to the 2022 state election, the City of Casey increased its campaign for the extension of the rail line to Clyde, including the construction of 3 new stations.{{Cite web |title=Advocacy {{!}} City of Casey |url=https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/advocacy |access-date=15 January 2023 |website=www.casey.vic.gov.au}} The City of Casey proposal involved the construction of stations at Cranbourne East, Casey Fields (only proposed by the council), and Clyde. This proposal was supported again by opposition leader Matthew Guy, minus the station at Casey Fields.{{Cite web |title=City of Casey welcomes Clyde Rail Link election commitment {{!}} City of Casey |url=https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/news/city-of-casey-welcomes-clyde-rail-link-election-commitment |access-date=15 January 2023 |website=www.casey.vic.gov.au}} The incumbent Andrews government made no commitments to the Clyde rail extension, instead continuing construction on the Cranbourne Line Upgrade.{{Cite web |last=Nsenduluka |first=Callum Godde and Mibenge |date=6 October 2022 |title=Vic premier vows full term if re-elected |url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7931544/vic-premier-vows-full-term-if-re-elected/ |access-date=15 January 2023 |website=The Canberra Times |language=en-AU}} The 2022 state election resulted in another Labor victory, with the Andrews government pushing ahead with the Cranbourne Line Upgrade, with the extension to Clyde remaining stagnant ever since.{{Cite web |title=2022 State election results |url=https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/results/state-election-results/2022-state-election-results |access-date=15 January 2023 |website=www.vec.vic.gov.au |language=en}}
= Level Crossing Removals =
The Level Crossing Removal Project has announced the removal of all 15 remaining level crossings on the Cranbourne line, to be completed in stages from 2018 to 2025. All level crossings between Caulfield and Dandenong were removed in 2018 as part of the Caulfield to Dandenong skyrail project.{{Cite web |date=18 March 2018 |title=Caulfield to Dandenong skyrail nears completion |url=https://www.danielbowen.com/2018/03/19/cfd-dng-skyrail-nears-completion/ |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=Daniel Bowen}} This included the removal of nine level crossings and the reconstruction of five elevated stations along the corridor.{{Cite web |title=Caulfield to Dandenong (Skyrail) {{!}} Level Crossing Removal |url=https://www.ecodynamics.com.au/projects/skyrail/ |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=Ecodynamics {{!}} Commercial Landscaping {{!}} Greening & Nurturing Our Communities}} The second phase of removals involves removing individual crossings along the corridor through a variety of methods by 2025.{{Cite web |date=27 July 2022 |title=Pakenham Level Crossing Removals One Step Closer |url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-07/220727%20-%20Pakenham%20Level%20Crossing%20Removals%20One%20Step%20Closer.pdf }} Some crossings have been removed through elevating the rail corridor, some by lowering or raising the road, with other crossings being removed by closing the crossing off from motor traffic.{{Cite web |last=Cardinia Shire Council |title=LXRP – Level Crossing Removal Project in Cardinia Shire |url=https://www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/info/20056/major_projects/854/lxrp_-_level_crossing_removal_project_in_cardinia_shire |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=www.cardinia.vic.gov.au}} These projects will leave the entirety of the Cranbourne line level crossing free by 2025, with projects on the Sunbury line leaving the entire Sunshine-Dandenong corridor crossing free by the opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2025.{{Cite web |last=O'Keane |first=Tom |date=6 January 2022 |title=Contact awarded for $844M Melbourne rail works |url=https://roadsonline.com.au/more-level-crossings-set-to-be-removed-in-pakenham-melbourne/ |access-date=11 December 2022 |website=Roads & Infrastructure Magazine}}
= Cranbourne line upgrade =
File:MerindaParkStationEntranceP1.jpg
Announced in the lead up to the 2018 Victorian state election, the Cranbourne line would receive a $1 billion upgrade to coincide with the opening of the Metro Tunnel.{{Cite web |last=Victoria’s Big Build |date=17 January 2023 |title=Cranbourne Line Upgrade |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/cranbourne-line-upgrade |access-date=19 January 2023 |website=Victoria’s Big Build |language=en}} The project is being delivered by the Level Crossing Removal Project, and will include:{{Cite web |title=Cranbourne Line Upgrade |url=https://engage.vic.gov.au/lxrp-cranbourne-line-upgrade |access-date=31 December 2022 |website=Engage Victoria}}
- The removal of the four remaining level crossings (75% complete)
- Evans Road, Lyndhurst (complete)
- Greens Road, Dandenong South (complete)
- Camms Road, Cranbourne (complete)
- Webster Street, Dandenong (gone by 2025)
- The duplication of {{convert|8|km|0}} of single track between Dandenong South and Cranbourne (complete)
- The installation of a second rail bridge at Abbotts Road and Eumemmerring Creek in Dandenong South (complete)
- The reconstruction of Merinda Park station (complete)
- The delivery of a new rail connection for the Port Rail Shuttle Network (underway)
In 2020, the level crossing at Evans Road in Lyndhurst was removed through the construction of a road bridge over the rail line. In early 2021, the first platform of the newly rebuilt Merinda Park station was opened, with the second platform opening a year later.{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Gabrielle |date=19 March 2021 |title=First Step for Second Track as Cranbourne Works Gather Pace |url=http://www.gabriellewilliams.com.au/media-releases/first-step-for-second-track-as-cranbourne-works-gather-pace/ |access-date=31 December 2022 |website=State Member for Dandenong |language=en-Au}} In February 2022, the second platform at Merinda Park was opened along with the completion of duplication works. After the duplication works, the line could now handle 10-minute frequencies during peak periods. As a result, the timetable was rewritten to allow for 50 extra Cranbourne services to operate every week.{{Cite web |last=Chan |first=Ray |date=14 February 2022 |title=Cranbourne line works ahead of schedule |url=https://www.railexpress.com.au/cranbourne-line-works-ahead-of-schedule/ |access-date=1 January 2023 |website=Rail Express |language=en-AU}} Alongside the duplication works, all level crossings on the line will be removed. The Cranbourne line is projected to become the first crossing-free line on the network, with the remaining two crossings and other upgrade works expected to be completed by 2025.{{Cite web |last=Arnott |first=William |date=22 February 2022 |title=Cranbourne Line Duplication finished ahead of schedule |url=https://www.insideconstruction.com.au/section/projects/cranbourne-line-duplication-finished-ahead-of-schedule/ |access-date=25 December 2022 |website=Inside Construction |language=en-US}}
Network and Operations
= Services =
Services on the Cranbourne line operates from approximately 4:00 am to around 11:30 pm daily.{{Cite news |date=22 August 2022 |title=More Melburnians could hop on a train or tram every 10 minutes under ambitious Greens proposal |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-23/melbourne-train-tram-services-victorian-greens-state-election/101357298 |access-date=18 December 2022}} In general, during peak hours, train frequency is 5 minutes on the Dandenong corridor (combined with the Pakenham line) and 10 minutes in the AM peak on the Cranbourne line while during non-peak hours the frequency is reduced to 20–30 minutes throughout the entire route.{{Cite web |date=1 March 2021 |title=New timetable train line information – Public Transport Victoria |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/more/the-new-timetable-for-victorias-train-network/new-timetable-train-line-information/?line=cranbourne-and-pakenham |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301102536/https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/more/the-new-timetable-for-victorias-train-network/new-timetable-train-line-information/?line=cranbourne-and-pakenham |archive-date=1 March 2021 |access-date=18 December 2022 |website=}} Cranbourne line services operate as shuttles to and from Dandenong between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, connecting with Pakenham line trains. During the peak, some services originate and terminate at Westall or Dandenong. Services run anticlockwise through the City Loop, and from 2025, Cranbourne line services will cease to stop at South Yarra, Richmond, and all City Loop stations when trains are rerouted through the Metro Tunnel upon opening.{{Cite web |title=280 extra Metro services coming in January |url=https://www.metrotrains.com.au/280-extra-metro-services-coming-in-january/ |access-date=30 December 2022 |website=www.metrotrains.com.au |language=en-US}} On Friday nights and weekends, services run 24 hours a day, with 60 minute frequencies available outside of normal operating hours.{{Cite web |date=2022 |title=Melbourne Weekend Night Network Train Map |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/assets/PTV-default-site/Maps-and-Timetables-PDFs/Maps/Night-Network-maps/Night-Train-Map-SEPT-2021.pdf}} Since 13 February 2022, some off-peak daytime Cranbourne and Pakenham line services stop at Malvern station, running express between South Yarra and Malvern stations.{{cite web |title=Timetable changes on the Cranbourne Line |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/footer/about-ptv/improvements-and-projects/train-and-rail/more-train-services-coming-to-cranbourne/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220209073134/https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/footer/about-ptv/improvements-and-projects/train-and-rail/more-train-services-coming-to-cranbourne/ |archive-date=9 February 2022 |access-date=9 February 2022 |publisher=Public Transport Victoria}}
Freight operations are limited, with Qube Holdings operating a daily service on a short section of the line hauling containerised cement to the Kimberly-Clark siding at Dandenong South.
Train services on the Cranbourne line are also subjected to maintenance and renewal works, usually on selected Fridays and Saturdays. Shuttle bus services are provided throughout the duration of works for affected commuters.{{Cite news |date=15 November 2016 |title=Where do train replacement buses come from? |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-11-15/where-do-train-replacement-buses-come-from/8018532 |access-date=18 December 2022}}
== Stopping Patterns ==
Legend — Station Status
- ◼ Premium Station – Station staffed from first to last train
- ◻ Host Station – Usually staffed during morning peak, however this can vary for different stations on the network.
Legend — Stopping Patterns
Some services do not operate via the City Loop
- ● – All trains stop
- ◐ – Some services do not stop
- ▲ – Only inbound trains stop (trains operate counter-clockwise through the City Loop all day)
- | – Trains pass and do not stop
{{Table alignment}}
| class="wikitable defaultcenter col1left"
! colspan="5" style="background:#{{rcr|Melbourne|Cranbourne}};" |Cranbourne Services{{cite web |title=Cranbourne Line |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/route/timetable/4/cranbourne/ |website=Public Transport Victoria |access-date=26 December 2022}} |+ !Station !Zone !Local !Ltd Express !Shuttle | ||||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Flinders Street}} | rowspan="11" | 1 | ● | ● | rowspan="20" | |
| ◼ {{rwsa|Southern Cross}} | ▲ | ▲ | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Flagstaff}} | ▲ | ▲ | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Melbourne Central}} | ▲ | ▲ | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Parliament}} | ▲ | ▲ | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Richmond|m}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|South Yarra}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◻ {{rwsa|Malvern|m}} | ◐ | {{Pipe}} | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Caulfield}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Carnegie}} | ● | {{Pipe}} | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Murrumbeena}} | ● | {{Pipe}} | ||
| ◻ {{rwsa|Hughesdale}} | rowspan="3" | 1/2 | ● | {{Pipe}} | |
| ◼ {{rwsa|Oakleigh}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◻ {{rwsa|Huntingdale}} | ● | {{Pipe}} | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Clayton|m}} | rowspan="10" | 2 | ● | ● | |
| ◼ {{rwsa|Westall}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Springvale}} | ● | ● | ||
| {{htxt|◻}} {{rwsa|Sandown Park|m}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Noble Park}} | ● | ● | ||
| {{htxt|◻}} {{rwsa|Yarraman}} | ● | ● | ||
| ◼ {{rwsa|Dandenong}} | ● | ● | ● | |
| {{htxt|◻}} {{rwsa|Lynbrook}} | ● | ● | ● | |
| {{htxt|◻}} {{rwsa|Merinda Park}} | ● | ● | ● | |
| ◼ {{rwsa|Cranbourne}} | ● | ● | ● |
= Operators =
The Cranbourne line has had a total of 5 operators since its reopening in 1995. The majority of operations throughout its history have been privately run.
The government-owned Public Transport Corporation and later Bayside Trains operated the line for a short 4 years till the 1999 privatisation of Melbourne's rail network."Melbourne's Rail Network to be Split" Railway Digest November 1997 page 12
Bayside Trains was privatised in August 1999 and later rebranded M>Train. In 2002, M>Train was placed into receivership and the state government regained ownership of the line, with KPMG appointed as receivers to operate M>Train on behalf of the state government.[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2836793/National-Express-walks-out-of-Australian-rail-service.html National Express walks out of Australian rail service] The Daily Telegraph (London) 17 December 2002[http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2002/12/23/1040511007915.html Receivers take over train, tram group] The Age 24 December 2002[https://www.railexpress.com.au/victorian-passenger-services-get-new-managers/ Victorian passenger services get new managers] Rail Express 28 January 2003 Two years later, rival train operator Connex Melbourne took over the M>Train operations including the Cranbourne line. Metro Trains Melbourne, the current private operator, then took over the operations in 2009. The private operators have had a combined operational period of {{Age|1999|08|29}} years.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Mex |date=25 June 2009 |title=New train, tram operators for Melbourne |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/new-train-tram-operators-for-melbourne-20090625-cxgx.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230101122206/https://www.theage.com.au/national/new-train-tram-operators-for-melbourne-20090625-cxgx.html |archive-date=1 January 2023 |access-date=1 January 2023 |website=The Age}}
| class="wikitable"
|+Past and present operators of the Cranbourne line: !Operator !Assumed operations !Ceased operations !Length of operations |
| Public Transport Corporation
|1995 |1998 |3 years |
| Bayside Trains (government operator)
|1998 |1999 |1 years |
| M>Train
|1999 |2004 |5 years |
| Connex Melbourne
|2004 |2009 |5 years |
| Metro Trains Melbourne
|2009 |incumbent |{{Age|2009|11|30}} years (ongoing) |
= Route =
{{For-text|information about about the actual track|South Gippsland railway line}}
{{Cranbourne Line|float=right|collapse=yes}}{{maplink
|frame=yes
|frame-lat=-37.9607
|frame-long=145.1730
|frame-width=400
|frame-height=300
|frame-align=right
|text=Interactive map of the Cranbourne line in south-eastern Melbourne.
|zoom=10
|type=line
|id=Q5181939
|stroke-colour=#16B4E8
|stroke-width=5
|title=Cranbourne line
}}The Cranbourne line forms a relatively linear route from the Melbourne CBD to its terminus in Cranbourne. The line is {{convert|44|km|mi}} long and predominantly double-tracked; however, between Flinders Street station and Richmond, the track is widened to 12 tracks, narrowing to 6 tracks between Richmond and South Yarra before again narrowing to 4 tracks between South Yarra and Caulfield.{{Cite web |last=Carey |first=Adam |date=4 June 2015 |title=Multimillion-dollar Richmond railway station revamp in limbo |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/multimilliondollar-richmond-railway-station-revamp-in-limbo-20150604-ghgyos.html |access-date=12 December 2022 |website=The Age |language=en}} After Caulfield station, the track again narrows to two tracks, which remain for the rest of the route. The only underground section of the Cranbourne line is in the City Loop, where the service stops at 3 underground stations and operates in a counter-clockwise direction.{{Cite web |title=Guide to navigating the City Loop {{!}} Public Transport Users Association (Victoria, Australia) |url=https://www.ptua.org.au/tips/loop/ |access-date=12 December 2022 |language=en-AU}} Exiting the city, the Cranbourne line traverses mainly flat country with few curves and fairly minimal earthworks for most of the line. However, between South Yarra and Malvern, the rail corridor has been lowered into a cutting to eliminate level crossings, and between Malvern and Caulfield, the corridor it has been raised on an embankment for the same reason.{{Cite web |last=Wong |first=Marcus |date=10 May 2021 |title=Level crossing removals in 1920s Melbourne |url=https://wongm.com/2021/05/melbourne-1920s-level-crossing-removals/ |access-date=12 December 2022 |website=Waking up in Geelong |language=en-US}} After Caulfield, the line formerly had numerous level crossings; all have now been abolished between Caulfield and Dandenong as part of an elevated rail project, as well as some older bridges over and under roads.{{Cite news |date=6 February 2016 |title=Sky train project for Melbourne's busiest rail line gets go-ahead |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-07/melbourne-sky-train-gets-go-ahead-cranbourne-pakenham-line/7146446 |access-date=12 December 2022}} The remaining crossing will be fully removed by 2025.
The line follows the same alignment as the Pakenham line along the Gippsland line, with the two services splitting onto different routes at Dandenong. The Cranbourne line turns south and branches on to the South Gippsland line, while the Pakenham line continues along the Gippsland line.{{Cite web |title=Network Maps |url=https://www.metrotrains.com.au/maps/ |access-date=27 December 2022 |website=www.metrotrains.com.au |language=en-US}} Most of the rail line goes through built-up suburbs and some industrial areas, but after Dandenong, the line gets into a mix of both open fields and suburbia. This outer portion of the line is one of Melbourne's main growth corridors, which is rapidly replacing farmland with housing and commercial developments, adding additional passengers to the line each year.{{Cite web |title=Quicker Commutes, Better Connectivity – Liberals And Nationals To Extend Railway Line Through Melbourne's Growing South-east |url=https://vic.liberal.org.au/news/2022-10-05-quicker-commutes-better-connectivity-liberals |access-date=26 December 2022 |website=vic.liberal.org.au}}
= Stations =
The line serves 24 stations across {{convert|44|km}} of track. The stations are a mix of elevated, lowered, underground, and ground level designs. Underground stations are present only in the City Loop, with the majority of elevated and lowered stations being constructed as part of level crossing removals.{{Cite book |last=Lee |first=Robert S. |url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/224727085 |title=The railways of Victoria 1854–2004 |date=2007 |publisher=Melbourne University Publishing |others=Rosemary Annable, Donald S. Garden |isbn=978-0-522-85134-2 |location=Carlton, Vic. |oclc=224727085}}{{Cite web |title=Caulfield to Dandenong Railway & Linear Park |url=https://www.aspect-studios.com/au/projects/caulfield-to-dandenong-railway-linear-park |access-date=29 December 2022 |website=ASPECT Studios}} From 2025, services will cease to stop at Flinders Street, Southern Cross, Flagstaff, Melbourne Central, Parliament, Richmond, and South Yarra stations due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel.
| class="wikitable"
!Station !Accessibility !Opened !Terrain !Train connections !Other connections |
| Flinders Street
| rowspan="5" |Yes—step free access |Lowered |{{Collapsible list | title = 16 connections|
}} |{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| Southern Cross
|Ground level |{{Collapsible list | title = 27 connections|
}} |{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria coach logo.svg|30|Coaches|link=no}} {{Symbol|Melbourne skybus logo.svg|30|SkyBus|link=no}} |
| Flagstaff
| rowspan="3" |Underground | rowspan="3" |{{Collapsible list | title = 10 connections|
}} |{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} |
| Melbourne Central
|{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| Parliament
|{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} |
| Richmond
| rowspan="4" |No—steep ramp |Elevated |{{Collapsible list | title = 8 connections|
}} |{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| South Yarra
| rowspan="2" |Lowered |{{Collapsible list | title = 3 connections|
}} | rowspan="2" |{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} |
| Malvern
|{{Collapsible list | title = 2 connections|
}} |
| Caulfield
|Ground level |{{Collapsible list | title = 3 connections|
}} |{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| Carnegie
| rowspan="4" |Yes—step free access | rowspan="3" |Elevated | rowspan="5" |{{Collapsible list | title = 1 connection|
}} | rowspan="11" |{{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| Murrumbeena |
| Hughesdale |
| Oakleigh
| rowspan="2" |Ground level |
| Huntingdale
|No—steep ramp |
| Clayton
| rowspan="3" |Yes—step free access |Elevated |{{Collapsible list | title = 2 connections|
}} |
| Westall
|Ground level | rowspan="5" |{{Collapsible list | title = 1 connection|
}} |
| Springvale
|Lowered |
| Sandown Park
|No—steep ramp |1888{{Anderson-All Stations}} |Ground level |
| Noble Park
|Yes—step free access |Elevated |
| Yarraman
| rowspan="2" |No—steep ramp | rowspan="5" |Ground level |
| Dandenong
|{{Collapsible list | title = 2 connections|
}} |{{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria coach logo.svg|30|Coaches|link=no}} |
| Lynbrook
| rowspan="3" |Yes—step free access | rowspan="3" | | rowspan="2" |{{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| Merinda Park |
| Cranbourne
|{{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria coach logo.svg|30|Coaches|link=no}} |
| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|+ class="nowrap" | Station histories !Station !Age | ||||
| {{rwsa|Flinders Street}} | {{TAC2|12 September 1854}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel
| ||
| {{rwsa|Southern Cross}} | {{TAC2|17 January 1859}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel
| ||
| {{rwsa|Flagstaff}} | {{TAC2|27 May 1985}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel | ||
| {{rwsa|Melbourne Central}} | {{TAC2|26 January 1981}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel
| ||
| {{rwsa|Parliament}} | {{TAC2|22 January 1983}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel | ||
| rowspan="2" | {{rwsa|Princes Bridge}} | {{TAC2|8 February 1859 | |1 October 1866}} | rowspan="2" | | |
| {{TAC2|2 April 1879 | |30 June 1980}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Botanic Gardens|m}} | {{TAC2|2 March 1859 | |April 1862 | c}} | |
| Punt Road | {{TAC2|8 February 1859 | |12 December 1859}} | * Replaced by Swan Street (200m further along line) | |
| {{rwsa|Richmond|m}} | {{TAC2|12 December 1859}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel
| ||
| {{rwsa|Cremorne}} | {{TAC2|12 December 1859 | |28 December 1863 | c}} | |
| {{rwsa|South Yarra}} | {{TAC2|22 December 1860}} | * From 2025, services will cease to stop due to the opening of the Metro Tunnel
| ||
| {{rwsa|Hawksburn}} | {{TAC2|7 May 1889}} | * Not a stop since 31 January 2021 due to a timetable reshuffle | ||
| {{rwsa|Toorak}} | {{TAC2|7 May 1879}} | * Not a stop since 31 January 2021 due to a timetable reshuffle | ||
| {{rwsa|Armadale|m}} | {{TAC2|7 May 1879}} | * Not a stop since 31 January 2021 due to a timetable reshuffle | ||
| {{rwsa|Malvern|m}} | {{TAC2|7 May 1879}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Caulfield}} | {{TAC2|7 May 1879}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Carnegie}} | {{TAC2|14 May 1879}} | * Formerly Rosstown | ||
| {{rwsa|Murrumbeena}} | {{TAC2|14 May 1879}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Hughesdale}} | {{TAC2|28 February 1925}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Oakleigh}} | {{TAC2|8 October 1877}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Huntingdale}} | {{TAC2|25 June 1927}} | * Formerly Eastoakleigh | ||
| {{rwsa|Clayton|m}} | {{TAC2|6 January 1880}} | * Formerly Clayton's Road | ||
| {{rwsa|Westall}} | {{TAC2|6 February 1951}} | |||
| APEX Siding (Westall) | ? | - | * Used by Qube Logistics | |
| {{rwsa|Springvale}} | {{TAC2|1 September 1880}} | * Formerly Spring Vale | ||
| rowspan="2" | {{rwsa|Sandown Park|m}} | {{TAC2|December 1888 | c|15 May 1955}} | rowspan="2" |
| |
| {{TAC2|19 June 1965}} | ||||
| {{rwsa|Noble Park}} | {{TAC2|3 February 1913}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Yarraman}} | {{TAC2|21 December 1976}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Dandenong}} | {{TAC2|8 October 1877}} | |||
| Bonlac Foods Limited Siding | {{TAC2|23 August 1968 | |5 June 1994}} | * Formerly Amalgamated Co-op Marketers (Australia) Ltd Siding | |
| Bombardier Siding | {{TAC2|10 May 1955}} | * Formerly Commonwealth Engineering Siding
| ||
| Kimberley Clark Siding | {{TAC2|21 December 1970 | |24 January 2023}} | * Formerly Tubemakers of Australia Ltd siding | |
| Australian Window Glass Siding | ? | ? | ||
| {{rwsa|Lyndhurst}} | {{TAC2|1 October 1888 | |9 June 1981}} | ||
| {{rwsa|Lynbrook}} | {{TAC2|22 April 2012}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Merinda Park}} | {{TAC2|24 March 1995}} | |||
| {{rwsa|Cranbourne}} | {{TAC2|1 October 1888}} | * Temporarily closed in 1993 and re-opened in 1995 |
== Planned stations ==
| class="wikitable"
!Station !Accessibility !Expected opening !Terrain !Planned train connections !Other planned connections !Notes |
| Arden
| rowspan="5" |Yes—step free access | rowspan="5" |Underground | rowspan="5" |{{Collapsible list | title = 2 connections|
}} | | rowspan="5" |Opening as part of the Metro tunnel project in 2025 |
| Parkville
|{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} |
| State Library
|{{Symbol|Melbourne train logo.svg|30|Trains|link=no}} {{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} |
| Town Hall
|{{Symbol|Melbourne train logo.svg|30|Trains|link=no}} {{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria bus logo.svg|30|Buses|link=no}} {{Symbol|Victoria train logo.svg|30|Trains|link=no}} |
| Anzac
|{{Symbol|Melbourne tram logo.svg|30|Trams|link=no}} |
Infrastructure
= Rolling stock =
{{Main|High Capacity Metro Trains}}
File:High Capacity Metro Train arriving at Hughesdale station — July 2022.jpg arriving at Hughesdale station]]The Cranbourne line uses a fleet of electric multiple unit (EMU) High Capacity Metro Trains operating in a seven-car configuration, with three doors per side on each carriage and can accommodate of up to 1,380 passengers in each train-set. Shared with the Pakenham, Sunbury, and Airport lines, the rolling stock will consist of 70 High Capacity Metro Trains (HCMT), once fully delivered.{{Cite web|url=https://dtp.vic.gov.au:443/our-transport-future/our-projects/high-capacity-metro-trains|title=Bigger trains for a better Melbourne|first=Department of Transport and|last=Planning|website=dtp.vic.gov.au|access-date=10 March 2023}} They are built in Changchun, China, with final assembly occurring in Newport, Melbourne, by Evolution Rail, a consortium composed of CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles, Downer Rail and Plenary Group.{{Cite web |last=Galloway |first=Anthony |date=24 August 2016 |title=Alarm over Chinese trains |url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/problems-with-trains-of-chinese-company-bidding-for-victorian-contract/news-story/57bc1a1bec6a3eb960a764a61138103c}}
Previously, the Cranbourne line was served by a fleet of Comeng and Siemens Nexas trains. The oldest Comeng trains (stage 1 and some stage 2) have been retired and scrapped as part of the HCMT introduction, however, some of these trains have been displaced onto other Melbourne metropolitan lines.{{Cite web |date=17 October 2021 |title=Comeng trains starting to be scrapped |url=https://www.danielbowen.com/2021/10/18/comeng-trains-starting-to-be-scrapped/ |access-date=12 December 2022 |website=Daniel Bowen}}{{Cite web |last=Victorian Government Department of Transport and Planning |date=2023 |title=New train and tram orders |url=https://transport.vic.gov.au/our-transport-future/our-projects/new-and-upgraded-trains-and-trams/new-train-and-tram-orders |access-date=15 January 2023 |archive-date=1 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211201091609/https://transport.vic.gov.au/our-transport-future/our-projects/new-and-upgraded-trains-and-trams/new-train-and-tram-orders |url-status=dead }}
Alongside the passenger trains, Cranbourne line tracks and equipment are maintained by a fleet of engineering trains. The four types of engineering trains are: the shunting train; designed for moving trains along non-electrified corridors and for transporting other maintenance locomotives, for track evaluation; designed for evaluating track and its condition, the overhead inspection train; designed for overhead wiring inspection, and the infrastructure evaluation carriage designed for general infrastructure evaluation.{{Cite web |date=1 February 2011 |title=NETWORK SERVICE PLAN {{!}} Addenda |url=https://www.vline.com.au/pdf/networkaccess/networkserviceplan/addenda.pdf/addenda |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110307165249/https://www.vline.com.au/pdf/networkaccess/networkserviceplan/addenda.pdf/addenda |archive-date=7 March 2011}} Most of these trains are repurposed locomotives previously used by V/Line, Metro Trains, and the Southern Shorthaul Railroad.
= Accessibility =
File:New Clayton railway station April 2018.jpg that complies with DDA guidelines.]]
In compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act of 1992, all stations that are new-built or rebuilt are fully accessible and comply with these guidelines.{{Cite web |title=Accessibility – Public Transport Ombudsman Victoria |url=https://www.ptovic.com.au/improving-pt/accessibility |access-date=3 January 2023 |website=www.ptovic.com.au}} The majority of stations on the corridor are fully accessible, however, there are some stations that haven't been upgraded to meet these guidelines.{{Cite web |date=2023 |title=Station accessibility features |url=https://www.metrotrains.com.au/station-accessibility-features/ |website=Metro Trains Melbourne}} These stations do feature ramps, however, they have a gradient greater than 1 in 14. Stations that are fully accessible feature ramps that have a gradient less than 1 in 14, have at-grade paths, or feature lifts. These stations typically also feature tactile boarding indicators, independent boarding ramps, wheelchair accessible myki barriers, hearing loops, and widened paths.{{Cite web |date=n.d. |title=Accessing public transport |url=https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/community/health-support-services/accessing-melbourne/Pages/public-transport.aspx |website=City of Melbourne}}
Projects improving station accessibility have included the Level Crossing Removal Project, which involves station rebuilds and upgrades, individual station upgrade projects, and associated Metro Tunnel works.{{Cite web |date=12 June 2022 |title=Left behind: the fight for accessible public transport in Victoria |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jun/13/left-behind-the-fight-for-accessible-public-transport-in-victoria |access-date=3 January 2023 |website=the Guardian}}{{Cite web |last=Victoria’s Big Build |date=17 October 2022 |title=Urban design framework |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/level-crossing-removal-project/about/urban-design-framework |access-date=3 January 2023 |website=Victoria’s Big Build}} These works have made significant strides in improving network accessibility, with more than 66% of Cranbourne line stations classed as fully accessible. This number is expected to grow within the coming years, as a network restructure associated with the opening of the Metro Tunnel is completed by 2025.{{Cite web |title=Growing Our Rail Network 2018–2025 |url=https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/footer/legal-and-policies/growing-our-rail-network-2018-2025/ |access-date=3 January 2023 |website=Public Transport Victoria}}
= Signalling =
File:FB vs MB.jpg systems]]
Since its re-opening in 1995, the Cranbourne line had used a fixed-block, three-position signalling system designed for lower frequencies and less services.Fisher, Peter (2007). Victorian Signalling: by Accident or Design?. Australian Railway Historical Society (Victorian Division). {{isbn|978-1-920892-50-0}} However, the ageing system had undermined reliability due to the presence of system faults and limited frequencies, requiring the Cranbourne, Pakenham, and Sunbury lines to upgrade their signalling system. Since 2021, high-capacity signalling (HCS) has been rolling out on the Pakenham, Cranbourne, and Sunbury lines, allowing trains to safely run closer together and run more frequently.{{Cite web |last=Victoria's Big Build |date=18 March 2022 |title=High Capacity Signalling |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/metro-tunnel/about/technology/high-capacity-signalling |access-date=13 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build}} The new system is being delivered by CPB Contractors and Bombardier Transportation under the Rail Systems Alliance. These works valued at $1 billion includes the roll-out of {{convert|55|km}} of HCS and communications systems on the aforementioned lines, allowing an increase in reliability and frequency.{{Cite web |last= |date=19 July 2017 |title=Victoria awards Melbourne Metro high-capacity signalling contract |url=https://www.railwaypro.com/wp/victoria-awards-melbourne-metro-high-capacity-signalling-contract/ |access-date=13 December 2022 |website=Railway PRO}} The line will be equipped with Bombardier's CityFlo 650 communications-based train control system, which will enable operation at 2–3 minute headways.
The upgrade works were completed in phases from 2021. With the upgraded signalling system, trains are now able to run closer to each other. The new system was tested on the Mernda line and a section of the Cranbourne line before being fully implemented.{{Cite web |last=Victoria's Big Build |date=18 March 2022 |title=Testing on the Mernda line |url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/metro-tunnel/construction/rail-lines/mernda-line |access-date=13 December 2022 |website=Victoria’s Big Build}} In March 2022, the Cranbourne line underwent further testing of high-tech signalling equipment, to ensure the new trains and signalling system can safely run alongside older-generation trains—including freight and V/Line trains—and the existing signalling system.{{Cite web |last=Mirage News |date=24 December 2021 |title=Upgrades to bring more trains more often |url=https://www.miragenews.com/upgrades-to-bring-more-trains-more-often-700529/ |access-date=13 December 2022 |website=Mirage News}}{{clear}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- [https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/route/4 Cranbourne line timetable]
- [https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/more/maps/#networkmaps Network map]
- {{commons category-inline|Cranbourne railway line}}
{{Victorian Railway Lines|selected=melbourne}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Cranbourne Railway Line}}
Category:Railway lines in Melbourne
Category:Railway lines opened in 1886
Category:1886 establishments in Australia
Category:Public transport routes in the City of Melbourne (LGA)
Category:Transport in the City of Yarra
Category:Transport in the City of Stonnington
Category:Transport in the City of Glen Eira
Category:Transport in the City of Monash
Category:Transport in the City of Kingston (Victoria)