The Magazine | Australian National Construction Review | Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP)
Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP)
Developer : Level Crossing Removal Project
Main Construction Company : John Holland
Pakenham’s transformation to Smarter Transport
The Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project features a modernised Pakenham Station and the newly built East Pakenham Station, complemented by a 2.5km rail bridge. The upgrade includes an enhanced station forecourt, a bus interchange, dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones, street-level lifts, and a climate-controlled waiting room. Additional improvements expanded walking and cycling paths along the rail line, creating a seamless and sustainable transport experience.
The Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) marked a significant achievement in improving transport infrastructure and safety in Victoria. As part of a broader initiative removing 110 level crossings by 2030, with 84 already gone, the Pakenham LXRP transformed the local community by reducing travel times and enhancing safety for pedestrians and drivers.
The $864 million project delivered a modernised Pakenham Station and a brand-new East Pakenham Station. It also involved the construction of a 2.5km rail bridge, an upgraded station forecourt, a bus interchange, and additional pick-up and drop-off zones. Alongside these improvements, the project created 450 new car parking spaces, secure bike storage, and new walking and cycling paths, providing a comprehensive upgrade to the area’s transport network.
“The rail bridge design and new stations improve safety, reduce road congestion, and create more than six MCGs of new open space for the Pakenham community to enjoy,” said an LXRP spokesperson.
“The Pakenham LXRP was about more than just removing level crossings; it was about future-proofing the community by enhancing accessibility and safety,” said an LXRP spokesperson. “By upgrading the stations and improving infrastructure, we ensured that the area could support growth and provide a better commuting experience for everyone.”
The construction phase of the Pakenham LXRP focused on minimising disruption to commuters and residents. The centrepiece of the project was the 2.5km rail bridge, which elevated train tracks, allowing traffic to move freely underneath. This was complemented by the modernised Pakenham Station, which had been redesigned to accommodate growing passenger numbers and provide a more pleasant and accessible experience.
“One of our main goals was to ensure that the local community could continue with their daily routines with minimal impact during the construction period,” a LXRP spokesperson said. “We implemented detailed planning and careful coordination with local authorities to manage traffic flow and ensure safety around the work sites.”
The community was invited to engage with the project throughout the construction period with opportunities to attend site tours, participate in information and online sessions, so residents could be involved at every stage.
Sustainability was a cornerstone of the Pakenham LXRP. The iconic roof of Pakenham Station exemplifies industry-leading innovation, integrating digital fabrication technology to reduce raw material use and incorporating an energy-efficient 27.6 kWh solar panel system. These panels save 37 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
“At East Pakenham, we went a step further by using recycled-rubber kerbs in the station car park, capturing rainwater for reuse, and planting over 330,000 trees and shrubs across the project site,” said a LXRP spokesperson.
Like many large infrastructure projects, the Pakenham LXRP faced challenges, particularly in terms of coordinating the removal of multiple level crossings while ensuring that train services and road traffic could continue to operate smoothly.
The team worked closely with local businesses, residents, and other stakeholders to address concerns and keep the community informed throughout the process. “Coordinating such a large project, especially in an area as busy as Pakenham, required us to be adaptable and responsive to changes,” a LXRP spokesperson noted. “The feedback from the community was invaluable, and it helped us make adjustments that kept the project on track.”
Now that the Pakenham LXRP is complete, the community is already reaping the rewards of this extensive upgrade. The removal of level crossings has significantly reduced congestion, cut travel times, and improved safety for pedestrians and drivers. The new and modernised stations, along with the added infrastructure, serve as a transport hub, supporting the area’s future growth and development.
The Pakenham LXRP was just one part of a wider effort to improve Melbourne’s transport network, but it stood out as a shining example of what could be achieved through thoughtful planning, innovation, and strong community collaboration.
“We’re proud of what’s been accomplished here,” said a LXRP spokesperson. “The Pakenham project left a lasting legacy that will benefit the local area for years to come.”
For more information contact Level Crossing Removal Project, website www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
Discover More Level Crossing Projects …
The Level Crossing Removal Project: Springvale Level Crossing Removal – VicRoads
New Cutting for Safer Motion
An Alliance consisting of VicRoads, Public Transport Victoria (PTV), Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM), McConnell Dowell Constructors, Balfour Beatty Rail, Parsons Brinckerhoff and Beca was formed to design and construct the project. Major stakeholders included the City of Greater Dandenong and the community of Springvale. Delivered over a period of fifteen months, the Alliance contract was awarded in May 2013 and was completed in June 2014.
The Level Crossing Removal Project: Bell to Moreland
Levelling Up At the Level Crossing Removal Project
The Bell to Moreland project involves the removal of four dangerous and congested level crossings at Bell Street, Munro Street and Reynard Street in Coburg, and Moreland Road in Brunswick by raising the rail line over the roads. New stations at Coburg and Moreland have been built while existing heritage-listed station buildings have been restored and repurposed, along with new community spaces, and improved east-west connections.
The Level Crossing Removal Project: Mernda Rail Extension – Level Crossing Removal Authority
Mernda On Track
The $600M Mernda Rail Extension includes 8km of new rail line, three new stations (Mernda, Hawkstowe and Middle Gorge), car parking for 2,000 cars and three new community spaces at Hawkstowe, The Parkway, and Mernda which also includes a skate park.
The Level Crossing Removal Project: Glen Iris, Bentleigh, Ormond
On Track with John Holland
The $530M Melbourne Level Crossing Removals project involves the removal of four level crossings at Burke Road, North Road, McKinnon Road and Centre Road. Removing the crossings will allow more trains to run, improve safety and travel around Melbourne and will revitalise local communities with many areas benefiting from station rebuilds.
The Level Crossing Removal Project: Frankston line – Carrum, Cheltenham, Mentone, Reservoir Stations – Southern Program Alliance (SPA)
Staying On Track
Melbourne’s Level Crossing Removal Project involves the removal of dangerous and congested level crossings and the creation of new community open spaces, rail infrastructure upgrades, lift towers, waiting rooms, ticketing areas, kiosks, public toilets, landscaping improved parking, bike facilities, and new walking and cycling connections to improve public safety and create new premium stations.
The Level Crossing Removal Project: Blackburn and Heatherdale Roads – Level Crossing Removal Authority
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© 2025 InBuild Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. This image is the property of The Australian National Construction Major Project Review, published by InBuild Media Pty Ltd. It may be shared in digital spaces only as part of direct link sharing to the original digital file. Any other reproduction, modification, or distribution without written permission from InBuild Media Pty Ltd is strictly prohibited. For inquiries, please contact artwork@ancr.com.au
© 2025 InBuild Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. This image is the property of The Australian National Construction Major Project Review, published by InBuild Media Pty Ltd. It may be shared in digital spaces only as part of direct link sharing to the original digital file. Any other reproduction, modification, or distribution without written permission from InBuild Media Pty Ltd is strictly prohibited. For inquiries, please contact artwork@ancr.com.au
© 2025 InBuild Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. This image is the property of The Australian National Construction Major Project Review, published by InBuild Media Pty Ltd. It may be shared in digital spaces only as part of direct link sharing to the original digital file. Any other reproduction, modification, or distribution without written permission from InBuild Media Pty Ltd is strictly prohibited. For inquiries, please contact artwork@ancr.com.au
© 2025 InBuild Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. This image is the property of The Australian National Construction Major Project Review, published by InBuild Media Pty Ltd. It may be shared in digital spaces only as part of direct link sharing to the original digital file. Any other reproduction, modification, or distribution without written permission from InBuild Media Pty Ltd is strictly prohibited. For inquiries, please contact artwork@ancr.com.au
Daly’s Constructions provides expert design, civil works, cable installation, jointing, and terminating services for energy infrastructure projects.
Case StudiesWatt It Takes: From Design to Delivery
Daly’s Constructions, a family-owned and operated business with a 52-year legacy in the energy infrastructure industry. Daly’s expertise proved invaluable in navigating the complexities of the Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP).
“We provide specialist design, civil works, cable installation, jointing and terminating services to the energy infrastructure industry across Australia and New Zealand, specialising in major sub-transmission and transmission design and construct underground projects,” said Alex Anderson, Operations Manager at Daly’s Constructions.
The Pakenham LXRP demanded meticulous planning and execution to ensure minimal disruption to existing infrastructure and services. Daly’s Constructions rose to the occasion, contributing a team of 20 skilled professionals from their overall workforce of 100.
Their specific tasks included the crucial relocation of electrical assets. “We relocated high voltage and low voltage AusNet Services electrical assets to enable the LXRP and corresponding rail works to proceed,” Alex said.
Further demonstrating their comprehensive capabilities, Daly’s Constructions also undertook an upgrade of the rail corridor’s high-voltage underground cables. This involved not only replacing outdated infrastructure but ensuring its seamless integration with the broader LXRP network. “Multiple crews had to be coordinated across various work fronts in close cooperation with NWPA and AusNet Services,” Alex said, emphasising the collaborative nature of the undertaking.
While Daly’s Constructions didn’t deploy any entirely new products on this project, their success lay in their adept application of existing technologies and their commitment to safety and quality. Their long-standing reputation is built upon a strong value system prioritising these element.
“Our company has a strong value system based on principles that include commitment to safety, quality of service, integrity in our relationships and client satisfaction,” Alex said. This commitment has translated into a record of consistent, high-quality workmanship.
The Pakenham LXRP is just one example of Daly’s Constructions’ broad portfolio of significant projects across Australia and New Zealand. Their expertise is currently contributing to a wide range of initiatives, reflecting their leading position in the industry.
“We’re currently working on the North East Link (NEL), Suburban Rail Loop (SRL), West Gate Tunnel Project (WGTP), other LXRP projects, the Melton Renewable Energy Hub, and design and construction of sub-transmission supplies to power new Data Centres,” Alex said, highlighting the scope and diversity of their involvement in shaping critical infrastructure across the country.
Daly’s Constructions’ contribution to the Pakenham LXRP showcases their ability to successfully manage complex, large-scale projects. Their expertise in underground electrical infrastructure, combined with their unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and client satisfaction, solidifies their reputation as a reliable and capable partner for future major infrastructure projects.
For more information contact Daly’s Constructions, 20-26 Cyanamid Street, Laverton North VIC 3026, phone 03 9360 9485, email cable@daly.net.au, website www.dalysconstructions.com.au
Ontrack Excavation Group excels in Non-Destructive Digging, enhancing safety and efficiency in Australian infrastructure projects.
Case StudiesBreaking Ground, Not Pipes: NDD is a Game-Changer for Complex Projects
Enhancing project efficiency and safety, Ontrack Excavation Group has become a vital partner in the Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) through its expertise in Non-Destructive Digging (NDD) and excavation services.
The family-owned, company has over three years of industry experience and is known for delivering customer-focused solutions using cutting-edge technology, reliability and safety. Ontrack Excavation Group’s commitment to excellence makes them a top choice for complex infrastructure projects across Australia
For Ontrack Excavation Group, one of the primary tasks was navigating the complex network of underground utilities while ensuring that all services were preserved during excavation. Their use of NDD was pivotal in overcoming these challenges, enabling them to carry out the work without the need for extensive manual digging, thus reducing the risk of accidental damage and project delays.
“With our state-of-the-art vacuum trucks, we were able to carry out the job without disturbing the critical services already in place. It’s what makes NDD such a game-changer for projects like Pakenham,” said Hasan Yalcin, Director of Ontrack Excavation Group.
The efficiency of their operations also contributed to the overall project timeline, allowing other contractors to proceed with construction activities promptly. By providing clear service identification and drain cleaning, Ontrack Excavation Group helped streamline the integration of new installations, including utilities, transport infrastructure, and public amenities.
“Working on a project like Pakenham requires precision and teamwork. We knew that every day our efficiency was helping to keep the project moving forward,” added Hasan.
With a team of 15 skilled professionals, including 12 who were directly involved in the Pakenham project, Ontrack Excavation Group successfully delivered services that met the project’s stringent safety and operational standards. “Our team’s expertise, paired with the best equipment, allows us to tackle complex projects with confidence. We’ve always been committed to investing in the latest technology to ensure the job gets done right,” explained Hasan.
Safety and efficiency are at the core of Ontrack Excavation Group’s operations. Throughout the Pakenham project, the team adhered to strict safety protocols, ensuring that all work was performed with minimal risk to the public, their workers, and the environment.
Their specialised fleet of vacuum trucks enabled precise, clean excavations, which was critical in maintaining the safety and cleanliness of the site, especially in areas with high foot and vehicle traffic.
The success of Ontrack Excavation Group’s involvement in the Pakenham LXRP underscores their capabilities in managing large infrastructure projects. Their recent projects, including the Tram Maintenance Facility (TMF) in Maidstone and the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL), demonstrate a continued expansion in scope and capability, reinforcing their position as a leader in the industrial services sector.
“We’re proud of the work we’ve done at Pakenham, and we look forward to bringing our expertise to future projects. Our mission is to keep pushing boundaries, always striving to deliver the best,”
said Hasan.
For more information contact Ontrack Excavation Group Pty Ltd, phone 0499 654 865, email info@ontrackexc.com.au, website www.ontrackexc.com.au
Lantrak a trusted material management and plant hire expert, delivering sustainable solutions for Pakenham LXRP bulk earthworks success.
Case StudiesCircular Economy Leadership: Sustainable Solutions for Pakenham LXRP
Lantrak, a leader in material management and plant hire, served as John Holland’s primary subcontractor on the Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) for material disposal and truck hire. With decades of experience and a strong commitment to sustainability, Lantrak’s expertise was essential to the project’s success.
“Our goal was to ensure that every aspect of the bulk earthworks scope was handled efficiently, on schedule, and with minimal environmental impact,” said Rhys Tomlins, Lantrak’s Sales Manager.
Lantrak’s contributions included a comprehensive range of services essential to the project’s earthworks scope. These included onsite truck hire, haulage and disposal services, and material supply sourced from local quarries.
“Our involvement in this project speaks to the core of what Lantrak does best,” said Rhys. “By providing reliable and sustainable material and transport solutions, we were able to meet the project’s needs while upholding our environmental commitments.”
One of the primary challenges for Lantrak was providing a reliable disposal solution that could withstand Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. Lantrak leveraged its partnership with Barro Group, utilising their Nyora Quarry site as an all-weather disposal location. “This site was essential for maintaining the project’s timeline,” Rhys explains. “The all-weather capabilities at Nyora ensured that material disposal could continue uninterrupted, even after heavy rainfall.”
Lantrak successfully navigated the challenge of the industry-wide truck shortage, which arose due to multiple large-scale infrastructure projects happening across Victoria.
“We made a conscious decision to avoid overextending our commitments to ensure that our fleet could meet the demands of the Pakenham project,” says Rhys. “This meant we were able to provide reliable, daily support without compromising quality or delivery.”
The scale of Lantrak’s involvement was significant, particularly during peak periods of the project. The company utilised a fleet of fully compliant rail-specified Tandem Tippers, alongside 3- and 4-axle PBS Truck and Trailer combinations. At peak, Lantrak supplied over 40 truck and trailer units, along with 25 tandems, each day.
“This level of deployment was crucial to maintaining the pace of the project,” said Rhys.
Lantrak’s role in the Pakenham LXRP aligns with its broader commitment to sustainability and material reuse. Through its Circular Economy initiative, Lantrak diverts materials from landfills, repurposing them for beneficial projects. “We’re leaders in the reuse of raw materials, and we repurpose spoil from various infrastructure projects across Melbourne,” explained Rhys. The spoil from the Pakenham project, for example, contributed to the rehabilitation of an exhausted quarry hole at Nyora Quarry.
“Our disposal solution at Nyora serves a dual purpose. It enables us to assist in large-scale infrastructure while also supporting land rehabilitation, which is a key component of our sustainability efforts.”
Lantrak’s dedication to innovation is further exemplified by its Lantrak 360 initiative, launched at the Lysterfield Transfer Station during the Pakenham LXRP. This facility accepts mixed fill and inert waste materials, which are then sorted, screened, and recycled. This approach not only minimises waste but also contributes to a more sustainable model of material management, aligning with the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Since its establishment as a transport cooperative in 1959, Lantrak has supported some of Australia’s most iconic infrastructure projects, including the Snowy Mountain Scheme, Homebush Bay Olympic Stadium, and the New Royal Children’s Hospital. With a history that spans more than six decades, Lantrak has grown into one of Australia’s largest material management and plant hire businesses, annually moving over 20 million cubic metres of clean and structural fill.
“Lantrak has an unrivalled reputation for delivering material and plant hire solutions that prioritise sustainability and efficiency,” says Rhys. “We’re proud to continue that legacy with projects like the Pakenham LXRP.”
For more information contact Lantrak, 18 Dansu Court, Hallam VIC, phone 13 9666, email info@lantrak.com.au, website
www.lantrak.com.au