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PASSENGERS are reminded to plan ahead as major construction on the Ballarat Line Upgrade ramps up. From Saturday November 9 to Sunday December 1 coaches will replace trains for all of the journey between Wendouree/Ballarat and Southern Cross Station. Read more: Remembrance Day 2019 | Where to go in the Wimmera Ararat and Maryborough services will connect with coaches at Wendouree and Ballarat. Crews will work around the clock during the 23 days to lay new track and continue construction on station upgrades while commissioning, safety testing and driver training also takes place along the line. Passengers should allow an extra 45 minutes travel time and plan their journey at vline.com.au, by calling 1800 800 007 or speaking with a V/Line team member. As part of the blitz we'll be building track through level crossings, which will require road closures in Melton and Bacchus Marsh. Exford Road in Melton South will be closed from Sunday 10 November to Wednesday 13 November between Brooklyn Road and Staughton Street. Parwan Road in Bacchus Marsh will be closed from Wednesday 13 November to Sunday 17 November between Station Street and South Maddingley Road. Read more: Union calls on government to rule out VicRoads job cuts On Monday 2 December the new Cobblebank Station will open to passengers and there will be two new peak services between Melton and Southern Cross Station. Major construction on the Ballarat Line Upgrade will be complete at the end of 2019. A period of commissioning will follow next year before the introduction of more new services in 2020. While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday morning from The Ararat Advertiser. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the Ararat shire, sign up here.

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