11 Aug 2010: SEQ: Shorncliffe line needs a frequency boost!

[ozbob]

Media Release 11 August 2010

SEQ:  Shorncliffe line needs a frequency boost!

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has again called for an increase in train frequency on all lines, and the Shorncliffe line (1, 2). The most important factor to encourage public transport use is that services must be frequent, bottom line.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The Shorncliffe line currently has a single platform at Shorncliffe station. To allow more frequent services, ideally starting with trains every 20 minutes and this eventually being upgraded to trains every 15 minutes off peak, a number of upgrades to the line should be considered:

1. Duplication of the track between Sandgate and Shorncliffe,

2. The construction of a second platform and major station upgrade at Shorncliffe,

3. More trains and connecting bus services put on in the off peak."

"It is interesting to note that in recent news Melbourne has a view to upgrade its heavy rail system to a metro service standard with buses and trains every 10 minutes. Melbourne has the best tram network in the world as well, something tragically missing from Brisbane (3). Perth also has trains every 15 minutes in the off-peak and weekends on many lines, and every 5-10 minutes during peak hour- effectively a metro style service where timetables can be thrown in the bin"

"Why cannot Brisbane, as one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and with more people than Perth, match its rail service quality?

"What commuters want is very simple:

1. More trains, more often, and

2. A regular, reliable bus that will take them to their local station in time to catch the train."

References:

1. The Shorncliffe line  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4190.0

2. SEQ: It's 'frequency' stupid ...  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4169.0

3. Melbourne Visit August 2010  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4195.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4190.0