AUSTRALIAN Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Inland Rail contractor McConnell Dowell will carry out preparatory works and utility investigations in and around the Wangaratta Railway Station in April and May, ahead of major construction work.

ARTC Victoria and South Australia projects general manager, Ed Walker, said the works will bring opportunities for local businesses to participate in their delivery.

"There will also be a positive flow–on effect for motels, retailers, cafes and restaurants and a range of service providers," he said.

Residents can expect minor vegetation removal in the project area, traffic management and speed restrictions, trucks and other vehicles entering and exiting the work site from Green Street, and heavy vehicles including loaders, excavators and rollers operating on site.

Works to facilitate the Inland Rail project – with double–stacked freight trains to run from Melbourne to Brisbane – will bring significant changes to the Wangaratta Railway Station precinct.

In order to increase clearance for the higher freight trains passing through Wangaratta:

• the two Wangaratta Railway Station footbridges will be removed and replaced with a single pedestrian underpass;

• railway tracks will be lowered and the Green Street bridge will be replaced in the same location on the same alignment; and

• the existing track and platform on the eastern side of Wangaratta Railway Station will be relocated, so it sits parallel to the current track on the western side of the station.

McConnell Dowell project manager Tom Foley said residents will be kept informed of all upcoming works and the company will endeavour to keep disruption to a minimum.

For any concerns or enquiries phone 1800 732 761 or email victoriaprojects@artc.com.au, or visit the ARTC shopfront at 48a Norton Street, Wangaratta.