As part of the modernisation of Melbourne's tram network, Yarra Trams and Public Transport Victoria will be renewing tram tracks and building two pairs of level access platform stops on St Kilda Road at Grant and Coventry streets.

Consultation

Yarra Trams and PTV conducted community consultation during March to give businesses, residents and the general community an

opportunity to learn more about the proposed stops and provide feedback regarding the proposed upgrades.

An information session was held and interested parties were also given the opportunity to learn more or provide feedback by phone and email.

Following the consultation period, Yarra Trams submitted a detailed report to VicRoads, City of Melbourne and City of Port Phillip for consideration and support.

After a thorough review, VicRoads and relevant Councils granted approval for Yarra Trams to construct the tracks and new level access platform stops at Grant and Coventry streets.

Works and timing

Early preparation works will commence on Thursday 11 June 2015.

This work will prepare both sites for the construction of the new level access platform stops.

More details of what work will be taking place will be provided closer to the time of works.

Major works will occur between 4 and 9 July for the main track and platform construction works. Trams will not operate during this period.

The remainder of the works including platform fit out and commissioning will continue until early August 2015.

Why are the new platform stops being installed?

St Kilda Road is the world's busiest tram corridor with nine tram routes providing a combined tram service every minute during peak times. The two new level access platform stops will create a fully accessible tram corridor from Melbourne University/Swanston Street to Domain Interchange/St Kilda Road.

Benefits of the new stops

• Easier and safer access to trams

• Increased protection from road traffic

• Real-time passenger information

• Improved passenger amenity including shelters, lighting and seating.

Changes to St Kilda Road

As a result of the construction of the two new level access platforms on St Kilda Road, a number of changes will occur.

> The existing signalised pedestrian crossing located at the safety zone stop at Coventry and Dorcas streets will be removed and replaced with a new intersection traffic signal at Dorcas Street

> A left in/left out only movement at Coventry Street onto St Kilda Road will apply as the new platform will prohibit motorists turning right into or out of St Kilda Road

> Parking on St Kilda Road will be reconfigured in both directions with the construction of the new level access platforms.

Pedestrians

The work zones will be fenced off during the construction period for safety but footpaths will remain open to allow pedestrian access to all properties along St Kilda Road.

Tram passengers Routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 8, 16, 64, 67 and 72 tram services along St Kilda Road will be affected during the main closure from 4 to 9 July with all services diverted via Kings Way and Sturt Street.

The existing safety zone stops at Dorcas, Coventry, Grant and Southbank Boulevard will be removed following the opening of the new platforms at Grant and Coventry Streets.

For details closer to the time, refer to signage on the network or on-board brochures.

Contact us

If you have any further questions about the project, please call 1800 800 007 (6am - midnight daily) or visit ptv.vic.gov.au