Bell and Preston station

Marking two years since the completion of Bell and Preston stations and the removal of numerous dangerous level crossings in Melbourne’s North.

Looking back the project, it has notably won sustainability and landscape architecture awards, as well as special mentions from the Victorian Architecture Awards.

The state-of-the-art Bell and Preston Stations were one of the latest openings in 2022, following the removal of 4 level crossings on the Mernda Line earlier that year.

Since its opening, it has delivered improved east-west connections, sustainable landscaping, and better facilities. The new elevated platforms not only offer amazing views of the city but have also created public open spaces below, reducing traffic congestion and increasing safety.

Buckford Illumination Group supplied a range of luminaires across the development, illuminating shared walking and cycling paths, public open spaces, car parks, platforms and concourse areas—enhancing safety and the user experience.

Additionally, we supplied BIG Essentials Neon Neo, around the edges of the stained glass windows at Bell Station, activating the interior space with reflections during the day and maintaining its colour at night, providing decorative light into the entrances and platform areas.

The Bell to Moreland Level Crossing Removal Project is an exemplary example of urban design, and the lighting scheme contributes to delivering significant enhancements for the local community and the everyday experience of the commuter.

Prior to the upgrade, around 82,000 vehicles passed through these former level crossings each day, with boom gates down for up to 40% of the morning peak. We are proud to have contributed to a significant project that not only reduced traffic congestion but also improved community engagement within the area.

Client: Metro Trains Melbourne
Principal Contractor: John Holland
Principal Designer: KBR, Inc.
Specialist Lighting: Electrolight
Architect: Wood Marsh Architecture
Photography: Stephanie Rooney & Level Crossing Removal
Products: WE-EF LIGHTING PLS420 wall luminaires,CFT530 and VFL530 street and area luminaires, BIG Essentials Neon Neo, Xero Linear Lighting Systems XTI 2.0 Slot