The Department of Transport and Planning is pursuing a solution to the hopelessly narrow path across the railway bridge on the Heathmont Trail near Heathmont Station.
The narrow path on the northern side of Canterbury Road takes the trail from the east side of the railway line to the west as it continues through Heathmont.
The DPT has announced that it is making a number of upgrades in the precinct surrounding the intersection of Canterbury and Heathmont Roads in Melbourne’s outer east
These will include widening the path across the rail line, introduction of a shared path crossing across Canterbury Road with bicycle lanterns, flashing ‘Give Way to Pedestrians’ signs, and fully controlled right hand turns from Canterbury Road.
The DTP describes the location as complex, with multiple transport modes interface – rail, road (including freight), and active transport, and requires careful planning to deliver safety and connectivity improvements within site constraints.
Approximately 36,000 vehicles travel on Canterbury Road every day. It is a key freight route and provides an east-west link from Camberwell to Montrose, including access onto the Eastlink.
In the 10 years leading up to 2020, there have been seven reported crashes at the Canterbury Road and Heathmont intersection. This is aimed to make it safer and easier for drivers, riders, and pedestrians to travel through the busy intersection.
The upgrades will be welcome as the trail along the railway line from Ringwood is being upgraded by the Level Crossing Removal Project.
Construction is expected in mid-2025.
Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter.