MANNINGHAM: Doncaster Park & Ride under construction
Gabrielle Williams (pictured), Minister for Transport Infrastructure, last week announced that construction has begun, which will connect to Melbourne’s first dedicated busway when it opens in 2028.
The upgraded facility will feature more platforms, supporting both express services on the new busway and local bus routes – making travel faster and more convenient for passengers.
The multi-level car park will include 435 parking spaces, along with lifts, stairs, a Drop-and-Go zone, improved walking and cycling connections, bicycle parking, accessible toilets, a ticket office, and a comfortable waiting area.
Community feedback helped shape the final design through the Urban Design and Landscape Plan, which received 245 submissions. Updates include more trees and landscaping, enhanced architectural finishes, a simpler Drop-and-Go layout, and better facilities for cyclists.
Together with the Bulleen Park and Ride, which opened in 2023, the Doncaster Park and Ride will provide more than 800 car parking spaces for commuters using the new Eastern Busway.
“The busway complements the project’s overhaul of the Eastern Freeway to slash travel times and ease congestion,” said a Government representative.
“With dedicated lanes along the upgraded freeway, the busway will deliver faster, more-frequent and more-reliable trips to and from the city for six million passengers a year.
The North East Link tunnels, M80 Ring Road Completion and Eastern Freeway Upgrades are jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments.
“The start of major construction on the new Doncaster Park and Ride is a big step towards delivering Melbourne’s first dedicated busway – getting people to and from the city faster, more often and more reliably,” said Ms Williams.
“Together with the Bulleen Park and Ride, we’re doubling parking for bus passengers and making it easier and safer to walk, cycle and connect to services in Melbourne’s east.”