Work to remove three level crossings on the Frankston railway line has been brought forward to avoid the need for two extended and disruptive closures of the busy line in the next few years.

But residents of the bayside suburbs of Chelsea and Edithvale may have to find new ways of getting around once the works are done, with some local roads in the area set to be shut for good as part of the level crossing removal program.

Works at Bentleigh station in 2016. Eighteen level crossings are being removed on the Frankston line, at a cost of $3 billion. Credit:Justin McManus

The state government announced on Sunday that level crossings at Swanpool Avenue and Chelsea Road in Chelsea, and Lochiel Avenue in Edithvale, will be gone by the end of 2022.

It had previously made an election promise to remove them by 2025.