Works to improve Oakleigh Station have started as a part of a transformation that will provide better facilities and greater accessibility for the community.

The upgrade project will reinvigorate the station precinct while keeping trains running.

Once complete, this upgrade will provide a safer and more user-friendly experience for those accessing the station and the Oakleigh shopping precinct.

A shallow, dated underpass currently exists as the only pedestrian crossing between north and south sides of the station, with commuters having to access a central island for city-bound services.

This upgrade will bring the underpass up to modern standards and redesign access ramps on both sides, providing a more accessible, modern connection for all users.

There will be two new lifts installed, better lighting and security cameras, and new canopies to provide better protection from the weather.

The redesign will see commuters also benefit from direct access to city-bound services from Haughton Road, which will reduce congestion in the underpass.

Oakleigh Station will remain open during construction to ensure that regular train and bus services are maintained for commuters, with some temporary changes to station access and car parking required to facilitate works

Metro is working in partnership with the Level Crossing Removal Project, Lendlease, CPB Contractors, WSP and Aurecon will deliver the work.

This team has already successfully removed nine level crossings and constructed five new elevated stations between Caulfield and Dandenong.

Locals will be enjoying their upgraded Oakleigh station facilities by mid-2020, with some minor works to be completed later in the year.