Transport triumph- Public Transport Minister Martin Pakula and Lyndhurst MP Tim Holding turned the first sod at the site of the new Lynbrook Railway Station on Saturday. 54674 Picure: Stewart Chambers

By Bridget Cook
WORKS on the new Lynbrook Railway Station officially started on the weekend.
Public Transport Minister Martin Pakula and Lyndhurst MP Tim Holding turned the first sod at the site of the new station on Saturday.
The new train station, located between Dandenong and Merinda Park railway stations on the Cranbourne line, will provide convenient transport links to the local community.
The station is expected to open in late 2011. Talking at the sod turn, Mr Pakula said the new station was part of a State Government $220 million package for new stations in Melbourne’s growth areas
“The station will serve current and future public transport needs and help people access jobs, study and entertainment,” he said.
“Delivering new infrastructure at Lynbrook is an important, practical step to serve the growing local communities of Lynbrook and Lyndhurst, where there is expected to be a population of approximately 80,000 living within five kilometres of the new station by 2021.”
Mr Holding said the new station would be integrated with other transport links.
“The station will feature a new park and ride facility with approximately 250 car parking spaces, as well as easy access to bus stops and a taxi rank,” Mr Holding said.
“The station will also provide more sustainable transport options and includes a bike shelter.
“Access between the two platforms will be via an existing pedestrian underpass, which will provide an easy link between the eastern and western sides of the rail line.
“The design for the new Lynbrook station will also include extensive lighting and closed circuit camera security surveillance (CCTV) at and near the station, including the car parks, bus stops and approach paths to the station.”
The Department of Transport, Metro and John Holland project team will initially carry out earthworks and piling for foundations next to the rail line on Aylmer Road.
New stations are also being built at Williams Landing, Caroline Springs and Cardinia Road in Pakenham.
To find out more about the project, contact 1800 078 387.