18 Oct 2011: SEQ: Core Frequent Network: Consultation & review of Bulimba & West

[ozbob]

Media release 18 October 2011

SEQ: Core Frequent Network: Consultation & review of Bulimba & Western Suburbs buses required

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls for consultation and review into bus services for the Western Suburbs (Westlake, Riverhills, Middle Park, Mt Ommaney, Jindalee, Jamboree Heights), and Bulimba area Suburbs (East Brisbane, Balmoral, Hawthorne, Bulimba).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"RAIL Back On Track is receiving feedback that would suggest that consultation and review of service levels in these areas is required."

"In the Western Suburbs, the Centenary suburbs are a major gap in the BUZ network. Suburbs such as Riverhills, Westlake and Middle Park don't have access to a BUZ and frequent train services are too far (> 4 km) for walk-up access. RAIL Back On Track believes that a Centenary BUZ service is top priority in this area, as well as a restructuring of routes so that maximum speed, frequency and co-ordination are gained."

"In the Bulimba area, we are receiving feedback that the 230/235 bus services need improvements to frequency, operating hours and adjustments to timings. Although there is a ferry service, it is a significant walk (> 1 km) through hilly topography from Riding and Thynne Roads and there are reports of overcrowding and timing issues on these services. Also, as a fast, direct arterial road, Wynnum and Manly Roads are are a prime candidate for a simple, frequent line-haul BUZ route to cover demand that is too far to be captured by the Cleveland rail line."

"Consultation could take place as mail-back postcards in letterboxes and online as was done with the New Farm area changes earlier this year."

"A review and consultation into these areas is needed and would be rapid and low cost to do. We look forward to TransLink's response."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org