The Belgrave and Lilydale lines have been missed completely by a new train timetable announced by Conex and the State Government and the Maroondah Journal has reported on this neglect:

Eastern Transport Coalition spokesman, Maroondah Councillor Alex Makin, said the east had been neglected. “The Belgrave and Lilydale lines, which serve Melbourne’s eastern suburbs have been neglected by the State Government despite growing patronage and peak hour overcrowding.”

While other lines were provided with additional shoulder peak services, the Belgrave and Lilydale lines were provided with nothing, despite the inadequate half hourly services that exist during interpeak and non-peak times on weekdays.

“Rather than continuing to play catch-up, the State Government should have used this opportunity to provide significant improvements to train services.”

A major review of Melbourne’s rail timetables is required to ensure that frequent services and efficient scheduling that would help minimise overcrowding. Unfortunately the new timetable which will take effect from the 30th of September provides little more than just minor tweaking on those lines that were fortunate enough to see additional services.