Yarra Trams

Planned - the need for works has been identified and planning has commenced. Specific dates may not have been identified at this stage.

Tentative - a detailed planning phase is underway. Generally a date has been identified although final confirmation is subject to approval from relevant authorities.  Dates and details should be treated as indicative at this stage and may change as planning continues.

Confirmed - the date has been secured and works are in the final planning stages. Some preparatory works may commence in the area before the actual date.

In progress - Works are underway.  Some further works may be required to continue after the major works date listed here.

Type of Works:

Tram stop construction - Part of the TRAMSformation of Melbourne's tram network involves the building of accessible tram stops. This assists people who are mobility impaired, elderly or with prams to more easily board trams.  This development usually involves heavy construction over a short period of time, often over one weekend.  Road lanes and tram tracks will be closed during the major works so tram service changes and traffic diversions will be required.  The stop will not re-open immediately after the major works as finishing work to the tram stop will continue for a number of weeks.

Track renewal - On average tram tracks are replaced every 30 years.  With 250 kilometres of double track, we have an ongoing program of repairing and replacing tram tracks at different locations on the network every year.  Track renewal typically involves heavy work to break the road surface, remove the old tracks, insert the new tracks and resurface the road.  Significant noise and dust should be expected in the initial phase of works when heavy excavators are used.  Crews work continuously day and night during the closure to complete the works.  Weather can have a significant impact on our ability to finish the works on time.  Road closures and tram service changes are required.

Overhead - Power is supplied to trams through the overhead wires.  With more than 500 kilometres of overhead wire, regular maintenance and renewal is required.  Overhead works are typically done overnight to minimise the effect on road traffic and tram services although sometimes road closures and tram service changes are required.  Heavy works are not usually required unless power poles need to be removed or replaced.  While these pole works can be noisy, most overhead power works do not create excessive works.

Infrastructure - This involves upgrading infrastructure required to keep the tram network moving.  It involves a wide range of works including the maintenance of buildings, tram depots, power substations and other network facilities.  The impact of the works varies greatly depending on the specific project.

External Works - These works are being done by a third party, not by Yarra Trams.  However the works can affect tram services.  This includes VicRoads and Council road works, building construction involving cranes, utility repairs and maintenance etc.  While Yarra Trams works with the external organisation to minimise tram service disruptions, we do not have direct control over the works.  Any inquiries should be directed to the organisation or utility undertaking the works.

Yarra Trams welcomes customer feedback on 1800 800 007 (6am - Midnight daily).

Previous works

2012 archive