Watsons Road Level Crossing Removal: Supporting Safe and Efficient Infrastructure Delivery
The Watsons Road Level Crossing Removal in Diggers Rest is a significant component of Victoria’s Big Build, aimed at improving safety, reducing congestion, and supporting the rapidly growing communities in Melbourne’s north-west. Delivered as part of the Western Program Alliance, the project removes the level crossings at Watsons Road and Old Calder Highway by constructing new road bridges, permanently separating road and rail movements.
KPI Construction Services was engaged to provide skilled labour hire and comprehensive traffic management services, supporting major construction works within an active rail corridor and high-traffic environment.
Project Overview – Part of Victoria’s Big Build
Scope and Objectives of the Watsons Road Level Crossing Removal
The project includes:
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Removal of the Watsons Road and Old Calder Highway level crossings
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Construction of two new road bridges to separate vehicles and trains
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Improved safety outcomes for motorists, pedestrians, and rail users
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Reduced congestion and improved travel reliability for more than 8,000 daily vehicles
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Future-proofed infrastructure to support growth in Diggers Rest and surrounding areas
Once complete, the project will contribute to making the Sunbury Line level crossing free, supporting more frequent and reliable train services.
KPI Construction Services’ Role and Capabilities
KPI Construction Services delivered an integrated suite of services critical to the safe execution of works, including:
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Skilled Labour Hire, providing experienced personnel to support traffic and site operations
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Traffic Management Crews operating within high-risk road and rail interfaces
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Traffic Management Planning and Design, aligned with staged closures and complex construction sequencing
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Permits and Approvals Management, ensuring compliance with VicRoads, LXRP, and local authority requirements
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Traffic Management Coordination and Oversight, including ongoing monitoring, adjustments, and stakeholder liaison
With Watsons Road closed at the level crossing from November 2024 through to late 2025, KPI’s planning and operational expertise was essential in maintaining safe detours, minimising disruption, and protecting both workers and the public.
Why the Watsons Road Level Crossing Removal is Critical
Improving Safety for a Growing Community
More than 27 trains pass through the Diggers Rest level crossings during the morning peak alone, resulting in significant boom gate down time and increased safety risk. Removing the crossings eliminates conflicts between road and rail, delivering long-term safety benefits.
Reducing Congestion and Improving Network Efficiency
The separation of road and rail significantly improves traffic flow, reduces delays, and supports freight, commuter, and emergency vehicle movements across Melbourne’s north-west transport network.
Delivering Traffic Management in a Live Rail Environment
Major works involved around-the-clock construction activity, rail shutdowns, bus replacements, and complex detour arrangements. KPI Construction Services’ ability to provide qualified personnel, compliant traffic management systems, and proactive on-site management ensured safe and efficient access was maintained throughout all phases of the project.
