14 Mar 2013: SEQ Bus Network Review - a cut too far for some areas?

[ozbob]

Media release 14th March 2013



SEQ Bus Network Review - a cut too far for some areas?

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 has applauded the recent SEQ Bus Network Redesign but has had concerns raised that some of the changes may be a cut too far.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Issues have been raised by some of our members that some of the proposed cuts impact some people too severely (1,2). This has also been mentioned in the media and by Brisbane City Council (3).   Transport Minister Scott Emerson stated on Tuesday afternoon 'I don't think necessarily Translink got everything right in this" with Translink receiving 1700 pieces of feedback in the first 24 hours (4)."

RAIL Back On Track would like to see the following outcomes:

1. Firstly we would again encourage commuters to access the TransLink website and review the proposed changes and most importantly provide feedback to assist TransLink with their review.  This will assist them when deciding what changes to make to the current network proposal.  For people without access to the internet they can call TransLink on the phone - 131230.

2. Secondly we would call on Brisbane City Council and TransLink to work together to find a solution to the issues raised by BCC in a timely manner so that the benefits of the review are not unduly delayed.

3. Thirdly we want TransLink to seriously consider all feedback received and to make changes where they are deemed necessary to provide a package that is both cost efficient but also maintains important connections.

4. The positive aspects of the proposed changes for the bus review are not being promoted well. There are real gains for the network as a whole but this is not being articulated by the authorities in a coherent manner.  Unless the 'why and how' of the changes is properly explained the review will fail.

"We need to all work together for a better outcome for Brisbane and South East Queensland."

References:

(1) http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9045.840

(2) http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9726.0

(3) http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/route-changes-throw-tourists-veterans-under-a-bus-council-20130312-2fypc.html

(4) http://au.news.yahoo.com/video/queensland/watch/dac45e18-38ff-381b-bfee-ce1e51ae1601/emerson-backflips-on-bus-service/

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

Discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9045.msg121902#msg121902