This document presents the outcomes of an architectural design studio that set out to explore the potential of elevated rail as a method for level-crossing removal in several Melbourne rail corridors.

The studio used design-research to explore options for elevated rail along the Upfield line. We analysed existing conditions along the corridor, along with local and international precedents. Key institutional stakeholders including PTV, VicTrack, VicRoads and DEDJTR, and numerous planning, design and construction experts, provided valuable background information.

Our analysis was integrated into a series of design studies to test the potentials of various viaduct and station design possibilities in their local context. These studies explored the effects of different viaduct heights, means of approach, circulation, as well as place-making strategies. The design proposals addressed a series of essential criteria covering amenity, connectivity, accessibility, disruptiveness, safety, economic development and future proofing.

The main body of this booklet presents the most successful proposals produced in the studio under each category. We also provide an overview of design proposals for elevated rail at each station from Royal Park to Upfield, inclduing a new station at Campbellfield.