After generations of only incremental developments to Melbourne’s public transport network, finally this city is getting what it needs. Dangerous rail crossings are being removed, vital rail extensions and central underground link systems are being built, and even more is planned for suburban areas. This is clever and sophisticated planning, and not before time.

On the table are two more proposals for railway ring loops or link systems. The one that Premier Daniel Andrews revealed before last year’s election was visionary, logical and feasible: a huge outer rail ring route from Cheltenham, through Monash University in Clayton, Box Hill, Fawkner, Sunshine and Werribee.

Passenger numbers will only grow in coming years. Credit:Jason South

The second, dubbed Melbourne Metro 2, is an underground rail route through inner-northern suburbs, linking Clifton Hill with a new station at Fitzroy, the vast future station at Parkville, then proceeding via Flagstaff, Fishermans Bend and under the Yarra River to Newport. This inner-northern route is just as important as the outer loop. It should be given the green light to proceed through proper planning, costing and construction.

Melbourne needs both of these projects. It can afford both and, properly executed, it is entirely possible to begin building both.